Many of the most important veterinary and human diseases are caused by apicomplexan parasites. Although there are many studies on the pathogenesis and immune response of these parasites, two of the most important aspects that determine the virulence and the outcome of the disease are the host and the strain causing the infection. Recent reports have highlighted that freshly obtained isolates have different phenotypic and genotypic traits compared to reference strains. In addition, new clinical signs and histopathological changes have also been described in different hosts or animals models. Finally, the distribution and epidemiology of each specific parasite is of relevance to understand their importance in geographical areas that may be associated with outbreaks or cases with particularly unexpected outcomes.
In this research topic, we aim at gathering research articles where differences between isolates/strains are studied, encouraging those related to Toxoplasma and Neospora, with other apicomplexan parasites being welcome as well. In addition, reviews and opinion articles will be also considered. To this end, the following topics are meant to serve as a guidance but other related subjects are welcome:
a) Molecular biology assays where different isolates are compared regarding the host-parasite interactions, behavior and immune response elicited.
b) Characterization of newly obtained isolates using in vivo and in vitro models.
c) Genetic studies that describe the differences found in certain isolates explaining their phenotypic behaviour.
d) Diagnosis methods that allow to discriminate between different isolates or strains that are prevalent in specific areas.
e) Epidemiology studies to determine the presence of apicomplexan parasites in unusual hosts or strains not previously described.
We are looking forward to your interesting manuscript and do not hesitate to contact us should you require further information.
Many of the most important veterinary and human diseases are caused by apicomplexan parasites. Although there are many studies on the pathogenesis and immune response of these parasites, two of the most important aspects that determine the virulence and the outcome of the disease are the host and the strain causing the infection. Recent reports have highlighted that freshly obtained isolates have different phenotypic and genotypic traits compared to reference strains. In addition, new clinical signs and histopathological changes have also been described in different hosts or animals models. Finally, the distribution and epidemiology of each specific parasite is of relevance to understand their importance in geographical areas that may be associated with outbreaks or cases with particularly unexpected outcomes.
In this research topic, we aim at gathering research articles where differences between isolates/strains are studied, encouraging those related to Toxoplasma and Neospora, with other apicomplexan parasites being welcome as well. In addition, reviews and opinion articles will be also considered. To this end, the following topics are meant to serve as a guidance but other related subjects are welcome:
a) Molecular biology assays where different isolates are compared regarding the host-parasite interactions, behavior and immune response elicited.
b) Characterization of newly obtained isolates using in vivo and in vitro models.
c) Genetic studies that describe the differences found in certain isolates explaining their phenotypic behaviour.
d) Diagnosis methods that allow to discriminate between different isolates or strains that are prevalent in specific areas.
e) Epidemiology studies to determine the presence of apicomplexan parasites in unusual hosts or strains not previously described.
We are looking forward to your interesting manuscript and do not hesitate to contact us should you require further information.
