Biotechnology Tools for Detection and Diagnosis of Plant Diseases: A Review

Plant diseases are a major threat to world food security and agricultural production. This review discusses recent developments in biotechnology-based approaches for for the detection and diagnosis of plant pathogens, with emphasis on molecular and immunological methods that have transformed disease identification. Major technologies include PCR-based approaches, next-generation sequencing, ELISA, lateral flow and new biosensor platforms. The combination of these technologies with artificial intelligence and machine learning has improved detection, speed and accuracy at lower costs. The strengths and weaknesses of each method, including sensitivity, specificity, field applicability and economic feasibility are discussed and these technologies facilitate disease surveillance networks and early warning systems. Ongoing research in diagnostic tools is essential in the development of sustainable agriculture and food security against emerging pathogen threats.