Biomolecular and computational insights into Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris infection in chickpea: a review

Chickpea ( Cicer arietinum ) is a widely cultivated legume crop in India, contributing to 64% of the world’s production and however, its yield is compromised by vascular wilt caused by the host specific necrotrophic fungus Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris (Foc). After infecting the host roots either by the direct penetration, accidental entry, or through wounds of the devolving lateral roots, it crosses the cortex and clogs the xylary vessels disrupting the flow of water molecules and nutrients resulting in wilting and death of the plants. Hence, it is widely acknowledged that the wilting induced by this fungus arises from a mix of several physiological processes including, the deactivation of the host's defense mechanisms, and the formation of tyloses. Therefore, selecting molecular markers is a more effective strategy to identify the sensitivity of Foc to chickpea varieties. Numerous investigations have been explored to detect Foc invasion and molecular understanding on its sustainability. Hence, this review is articulated to provide updated information on the molecular and computational studies with more emphasis to the OMICS biology and AI/ML techniques giving insights on the chickpea adaptations and mechanisms to overcome the virulence by the pathogen of interest. These scientific understandings would emphasize on the agronomic practices, establishing crop resistance and ensuring food security that would also support the aims of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2 (SDG2).