Identification of Upland Rice Genotypes Resistant to Neck Blast Disease: A Systematic Review of Field and Greenhouse Studies

This systematic review identifies, evaluates, and synthesizes evidence on upland rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes resistant to neck blast disease caused by Magnaporthe oryzae. The review aimed to determine resistant genotypes, screening methods, and genetic fac-tors influencing resistance variability across field and greenhouse studies. Eligible studies were empirical investigations assessing upland rice under upland or rainfed conditions, published in English between 1980 and 2025. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Sci-enceDirect, Google Scholar, and grey literature, with final searches completed on October 31, 2025. Risk of bias was assessed using a customized framework adapted from ROB-INS-I tool, and results were synthesized narratively due to heterogeneity in methods and reporting. Six studies involving 248 genotypes from Asia and Africa met the inclusion cri-teria. Twenty genotypes, including Kahei, Barkhe 1032, 1035, 2014, NERICA lines, and BC1F4 backcross derivatives, showed moderate to high resistance based on the IRRI 0–9 Standard Evaluation System. Two studies identified key quantitative trait loci (qBFR4-1, qBl1, qBl2) linked to durable resistance. Although most studies exhibited low risk of bias, two presented minor concerns in randomization and environmental control. Evidence was limited by small sample sizes, methodological heterogeneity, and restricted molecu-lar characterization. Nevertheless, the findings underscore the potential of QTL-based breeding and marker-assisted selection for improving upland rice resilience in blast-prone regions. Future research should expand genomic screening, harmonize protocols, and validate resistant lines across environments.