Pathogens transmitted by ectoparasites: Epidemiology, genetic characterization, and interactions

This research topic aims to explore the critical aspects of pathogens transmitted by ectoparasites, focusing on their epidemiology, genetic characterization, and interactions with hosts, ectoparasite microbiota, and environmental factors. We invite contributions that examine how these pathogens impact animal health and the potential for innovative control strategies.

This Research Topic aims to dissect and analyze the pathways through which pathogens are transmitted by ectoparasites, such as fleas, ticks, mites, and lice, looking at their genetic profiles and how they interact with hosts and environmental factors. It seeks to identify and characterize pathogens associated with ectoparasites, including bacterial, viral, and protozoan agents and understand the epidemiology of ectoparasite-transmitted pathogens. Factors influencing the transmission dynamics of these pathogens host susceptibility, and the influence of ecological conditions on disease proliferation. Moreover, it intends to investigate emerging methods in disease management and control, leveraging cutting-edge molecular and phylogenetic techniques.

The research topic is open to manuscripts with research that emphasizes the importance of studying ectoparasite-transmitted pathogens from diverse perspectives. By integrating epidemiological data, genetic insights, microbiota interactions, and innovative control strategies, we aim to foster a comprehensive understanding of these pathogens and inform effective management approaches in animal health.

To gather further insights into the complexity and multidisciplinary aspects of ectoparasite-borne diseases, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

o The variety of ectoparasites and the pathogens they carry, including bacteria, viruses, and protozoans.

o Molecular techniques for identifying and characterizing pathogens transmitted by ectoparasites

o Distribution patterns and the factors affecting the epidemiology of these diseases.

o Genetic techniques for pathogen identification and evolutionary analysis.

o Host immune responses and the effect of ectoparasites on disease transmission.

o Innovative strategies for disease control, including vaccine development and ecological management approaches.

o The role of ectoparasite-associated microbiota in the life cycle and pathogenicity of transmitted pathogens

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review

Keywords: ectoparasites, pathogens, epidemiology, immune

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.