This cluster of papers focuses on the genomics, pathogenicity, and host interactions of plant pathogenic bacteria, particularly in the context of bacterial blight in rice and other crops. It covers topics such as type III secretion systems, effector proteins, resistance genes, and the molecular mechanisms underlying host specificity. The research also delves into the genomics and evolution of specific bacterial pathogens such as Pseudomonas syringae and Ralstonia solanacearum.