Anna E. Whitfield

Reduced risk of a next-generation recombinant viral vector engineered from a plant rhabdovirus genome

This study evaluates the risk of a recombinant plant rhabdovirus, MMV-GFP, compared to its wildtype MMV-WT, finding it less fit and posing no greater risk to crops or ecosystems.

Cilevirus and dichorhavirus glycoproteins target overlapping host proteins in the Brevipalpus yothersi vector

This paper identifies host proteins interacting with glycoproteins from two BTVs in their vector, revealing shared and distinct host-interaction strategies.

Microneedle-based precision payload delivery in plants

The paper develops a polyvinyl alcohol microneedle system for precise delivery of small molecules to plants, showing higher efficiency and reduced chemical use compared to traditional methods.

Ruvbl1 is required for the reproduction of the corn planthopper, Peregrinus maidis

This study shows that silencing Ruvbl1 in corn planthoppers reduces egg production and hatching, suggesting it as a potential target for RNAi-based insect control.

CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing of Frankliniella occidentalis, the western flower thrips, via embryonic microinjection

This study develops a CRISPR/Cas9 method to generate heritable mutations in Frankliniella occidentalis, demonstrating gene knockouts and phenotypic changes.

Exportin 1 is required for the reproduction and maize mosaic virus accumulation in its insect vector Peregrinus maidis

This study shows that PmXPO1 is essential for the reproduction of Peregrinus maidis and supports maize mosaic virus accumulation in its insect vector.

Genome-enabled insights into the biology of thrips as crop pests

The paper presents the first genome sequence for a thysanopteran insect, providing insights into its biology and evolution as a crop pest.