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Microbial pathogens, nematodes, and arthropods manipulate plant processes through effectors that target defenses and developmental pathways, including those driving the formation of elaborate galls. These effectors often promote the growth and survival of plant colonizers while exposing critical plant processes, akin to Achilles' heels, essential for plant function. Studying effectors and their targets reveals opportunities to enhance crop production and identify cellular pathways with applications beyond plant biology. This session highlights the remarkable actions of effectors and their transformative potential in advancing agricultural and biological research.