We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Cetacean Host-Pathogen Interaction(s): Critical Knowledge Gaps
Summary
This opinion article identifies critical knowledge gaps in cetacean host-pathogen interactions, including uncharacterised cell receptors for infection, effects of chemical pollutants on receptor expression, and the influence of pregnancy-associated immune status on infection outcomes. Researchers argue these gaps limit understanding of disease dynamics in cetaceans and their potential value as models for human disease.
This is an "Opinion Article" addressing a number of critical "knowledge-deficient areas" regarding "cetacean host-pathogen interaction(s). These “knowledge-deficient areas” may be identified as follows: (1) characterization of the cell receptor(s) allowing infection; (2) interaction(s) and effects of chemical pollutants on the expression levels of the aforementioned cell receptors; (3) pathogenetic evolution of the concerned infections in T helper 1 (Th1)-dominant versus (vs.) Th2-dominant cetacean individuals; (4) effects of pregnancy-associated immune status on the infectious potential of the herein dealt pathogens; (5) usefulness of cetaceans and their pathogens as models for human disease.
Sign in to start a discussion.