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Abstract
To explore phytovirus-host-vector interactions, context specific -omics (genomic, transcriptomics, and proteomics) and big data analysis tools were applied to various pathosystems. The primary focus was to gain a deeper understanding of the transmission dynamics of viruses, with an emphasis on thrips and whiteflies, prominent vectors in virus transmission. Insect pathogen transmission plays an important role in the dynamics of ecological systems, as various insect species serve as vectors, facilitating the spread of viruses among plants, animals, and even humans. While there are many insect vectors, only in recent years have high quality genomic resources become available for some of them. The tobacco thrips (Frankliniella fusca Hinds) and onion thrips (Thrips palmi Karny) genomes were assembled to identify specific genetic markers associated with vector competence and provide high quality genomic resources. Additionally, these genomes comprise a larger Thripidae super-pangenome, which was compared to the Tospoviridae super-pangenome for evolutionary and interaction insights. Plant-virus interactions, specifically viruses transmitted by thrips were investigated to provide a more context to the molecular changes that occur post transmission. Transcriptomic analyses offer a broad understanding of the host plant's molecular responses to the virus, such as that observed in virus resistant and susceptible cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). The sweetpotato whitefly (Bemisia tabaci Gennadius), another significant vector in virus transmission, was of interest for understanding methylation patterns in response to virus acquisition. Through the integration of big data approaches, these studies can provide a foundation for future genetic work and contribute to our understanding of vector-host-virus interactions.