Resilience of sunflower crop under biotic stress conditions

Orobanche cumana Wallr., commonly known as sunflower broomrape, is a parasitic plant that severely affects sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) crop, causing significant production losses worldwide. This plant attaches to sunflower roots, extracting nutrients and water, leading to stunted growth and reduced seed yield. Traditional control methods, such as crop rotation and the use of genetically resistant sunflower varieties, have proven insufficient due to the adaptability and evolution of the parasite. Advances in molecular biology and genomics, such as the use of molecular markers and next-generation sequencing, facilitate the identification of qualitative and quantitative resistance genes (marker assisted selection), as well as gene pyramiding, supporting the development of resistant hybrids. Emerging technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9 and RNA interference offer promising opportunities for creating more resistant sunflower genotypes. In addition, artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms improve the efficiency of selection programs. This multidisciplinary approach is essential to control parasite and ensure sustainable sunflower production. Present review aims to summarise current knowledge and research gaps in methods to control broomrape and to develop resistance against parasitic plants.