Towards an integrated molecular model of plant–virus interactions

The application in recent years of network theory methods to the study of host–virus interactions is providing a new perspective to the way viruses manipulate the host to promote their own replication. An integrated molecular model of such pathosystems require three detailed maps describing, firstly, the interactions between viral elements, secondly, the interactions between host elements, and thirdly, the cross-interactions between viral and host elements. Here, we compile available information for Potyvirus infecting Arabidopsis thaliana. With an integrated model, it is possible to analyze the mode of virus action and how the perturbation of the virus targets propagates along the network. These studies suggest that viral pathogenicity results not only from the alteration of individual elements but it is a systemic property.

► Systems virology seeks to describe networks of host–virus interactions.
► Viral perturbations affect highly connected host components triggering a cascade effect.
► Identification of network structures opens possibilities for new antivirals.
► Networks of host–virus interactions evolve as viruses adapt to the host.