The identification of host factors involved in viral entry, replication, egress, and cellular responses to infection is critical for understanding virus–cell interactions and for discovering new antiviral targets. Engineered viruses, including virus-like particles, modified viral vectors, pseudoviruses, and reporter viruses, have significantly advanced the analysis of specific steps of the viral replication cycle across diverse cell types and experimental conditions.

This Topical Collection will include methods such as genetic engineering, advanced biotechnology techniques, high-resolution microscopy, high-throughput omics, and single-cell and cellular assays. It will also feature additional approaches designed to dissect how viruses interact with host cells and how host cells respond to infection, providing a comprehensive resource for researchers studying virus–host dynamics and developing novel antiviral strategies.