The interaction between pathogenic microorganisms (e.g., viruses, bacteria and parasites) and their hosts is complex and exerts paradoxical effects on the host. As invaders, these pathogens can cause severe damage, with emerging infectious agents posing significant global threats to human and animal health, resulting in substantial economic losses. Investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions is crucial for mitigating harm and understanding how hosts bolster their immune defenses. Advances in molecular biology have provided novel diagnostic tools that are vital for studying these interactions, enabling timely and effective immune responses for prevention and control. While immunotherapy remains a cornerstone of outbreak management, further research into novel pathogenic and immune mechanisms is urgently needed.

This Research Topic calls for submissions that elucidate host immune responses to pathogens, with a special interest in studies revealing how pathogens counteract host immunity throughout their long-standing co-evolutionary arms race. By delving into the molecular interplay of pathogen-host proteins, we seek to uncover specific pathogenic mechanisms that can guide the development of novel therapies, such as vaccines, drugs, and therapeutic antibodies. Furthermore, we encourage the development of innovative diagnostic techniques to enhance the study of these interactions. These advancements are expected to provide new perspectives for diagnosing infectious pathogens, thereby improving the efficacy of detection and control measures.

We welcome submissions that advance our understanding of pathogenic mechanisms in infectious agents (e.g., viruses, bacteria and parasites) and host immune responses. This call also extends to research exploring the role of gut microbiota in host health and disease, pathogenic mechanisms in cancer models, and the pathophysiology of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) models. We invite article types including reviews, and encourage contributions on, but not limited to, the following subtopics:
（1）Molecular mechanisms of pathogen-host interactions.
（2）Mechanisms of host immune recognition and response.
（3）Impact of gut microbiota on host immunity and physiology.
（4）Novel diagnostic methods for infectious pathogens.
（5）Clinical epidemiology of infectious diseases.
（6）Pathogenic mechanisms in oncogenesis and cancer models.
（7）Pathophysiological and immunological studies in NAFLD models.
（8）Preventive or therapeutic vaccines and drugs.
（9）Impact of probiotic or postbiotic preparations on host health and immunity.

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Uncovering the Connections Between Pathogens and Hosts: Exploring the Impacts of Microorganisms and Developing Novel Diagnostic Tools