Case Report - Journal of Parasitic Diseases: Diagnosis and Therapy (2024) Volume 9, Issue 1
Host-Parasite Interaction: Unraveling the Molecular Tapestry
Eric Chatelain *
Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi), R&D Department, Geneva, Switzerland
- *Corresponding Author:
- Eric Chatelain
Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative
R&D Department
Geneva, Switzerland
E-mail: svivasao1@gmail.com
Received: 29-Dec-2023, Manuscript No. AAPDDT-24-129275; Editor assigned: 02-Jan-2024, PreQC No. AAPDDT-24-129275 (PQ); Reviewed:17-Jan-2024, QC No. AAPDDT-24-129275; Revised:22-Jan-2024, Manuscript No: AAPDDT-24-129275 (R); Published: 30-Jan-2024, DOI:10.35841/aapddt-9.1.170
Citation: Eric Chatelain. Host-Parasite Interaction: Unraveling the Molecular Tapestry. J Parasit Dis Diagn Ther. 2024; 9(1):170
Abstract
The dynamic interplay between hosts and parasites represents a complex biological dance that significantly influences the course of infectious diseases. This mini-review provides a concise overview of host-parasite interactions, emphasizing the molecular intricacies that govern these relationships and their implications for the fields of immunology, parasitology, and public health.
Introduction
Host-parasite interactions form the cornerstone of infectious disease biology, dictating the outcome of infections and shaping the evolution of both hosts and parasites. Understanding the molecular intricacies of these interactions is crucial for devising effective therapeutic strategies and advancing our knowledge of immune responses [1, 2].
Recognition and invasion
The initial encounter between a host and a parasite is marked by molecular recognition events. Parasites have evolved sophisticated strategies to evade host immune surveillance, including the modulation of surface antigens and the manipulation of host cell receptors [3, 4, 5]. Host cells, in turn, deploy a repertoire of pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) to recognize conserved molecular patterns on parasites, initiating immune responses.
Immune responses and evasion mechanisms
Upon invasion, host immune responses are activated to counteract the parasitic threat. This section explores the intricate balance between the host's innate and adaptive immune systems and the diverse evasion mechanisms employed by parasites, such as antigenic variation [6, 7], immune mimicry, and modulation of host cytokine responses.
Immunopathology and tolerance
The tug-of-war between hosts and parasites can lead to immunopathological consequences. Chronic infections often induce host responses that, while attempting to control the parasite [8, 9] , may inadvertently cause tissue damage. Additionally, some parasites have evolved mechanisms to induce immunological tolerance, allowing them to persist within the host for extended periods.
Co-evolutionary dynamics
Host-parasite interactions are shaped by a continuous process of co-evolution. The arms race between hosts and parasites drives genetic adaptations on both sides, influencing the emergence of novel traits and the development of host resistance and parasite virulence.
Clinical implications and therapeutic targets
Understanding the molecular basis of host-parasite interactions holds immense clinical significance. This section explores how insights into these interactions can guide the development of targeted therapies, including vaccines, immunomodulatory drugs, and interventions aimed at disrupting essential parasitic pathways [10].
Technological advancements and future directions
Recent technological breakthroughs, including omics technologies and advanced imaging techniques, have revolutionized our ability to dissect host-parasite interactions at the molecular level. These innovations open new avenues for uncovering previously elusive details and identifying potential therapeutic targets.
Conclusion:
Host-parasite interactions represent a captivating field at the intersection of immunology and parasitology. This mini-review provides a snapshot of the molecular tapestry woven during these intricate engagements, highlighting the ongoing efforts to decode these interactions and leverage the newfound knowledge for the development of innovative therapeutic approaches. As we continue to unravel the complexities of host-parasite dynamics, the potential for transformative breakthroughs in infectious disease control becomes increasingly apparent.The tug-of-war between hosts and parasites can lead to immunopathological consequences. Chronic infections often induce host responses that, while attempting to control the parasite, may inadvertently cause tissue damage. Additionally, some parasites have evolved mechanisms to induce immunological tolerance, allowing them to persist within the host for extended periods.
References
Bexton S, Couper D. Veterinary care of free?living hedgehogs.. In Practice. 2019;41(9):420-32.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref
Boag B, Fowler PA. The prevalence of helminth parasites from the hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus in Great Britain.. Journal of Zoology. 1988;215(2):379-82.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref
Carlsson AM, Albon SD, Coulson SJ, et al. Little impact of over?winter parasitism on a free?ranging ungulate in the high Arctic. Funct Ecol. 2018;32(4):1046-56.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref
Barlow R, Piper LR. Genetic analyses of nematode egg counts in Hereford and crossbred Hereford cattle in the subtropics of New South Wales. Livestock Production Science. 1985;12(1):79-84.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref
Bishop SC, Jackson F, Coop RL, et al. Genetic parameters for resistance to nematode infections in Texel lambs and their utility in breeding programmes . Animal Science. 2004;78(2):185-94.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref
Kini RG, Leena JB, Shetty P, et al. Human dirofilariasis: an emerging zoonosis in India. J Parasit Dis. 2015;39:349-54.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref
Mungube EO, Bauni SM, Tenhagen BA, et al. Prevalence of parasites of the local scavenging chickens in a selected semi-arid zone of Eastern Kenya. Trop Anim Health Prod. 2008;40:101-9.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref
Xiaodan L, Zhensheng W, Ying H, et al. Gongylonema pulchrum infection in the human oral cavity: A case report and literature review. Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol. 2018;125(3):e49-53.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref
Zhou Q, Wei Y, Zhai H, et al. Comorbid early esophageal cancer and Gongylonema pulchrum infection: a case report. BMC Gastroenterol. 202;21:1-5.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref
Wenz A, Heymann EW, Petney TN, et al. The influence of human settlements on the parasite community in two species of Peruvian tamarin. Parasitol. 2010;137(4):675-84.
Indexed at, Google Scholar, Cross Ref