Crossing the Line: Selection and Evolution of Virulence Traits

PLoS Pathogens

关键词: Pathogens;    Virulence factors;    Bacterial pathogens;    Opportunistic pathogens;    Mobile genetic elements;    Respiratory infections;    Parasite evolution;    Host-pathogen interactions;   

DOI  :  10.1371/journal.ppat.0020042

学科分类：生物科学（综合）

来源: Public Library of Science

【 摘 要 】

The evolution of pathogens presents a paradox. Pathogenic species are often absolutely dependent on their host species for their propagation through evolutionary time, yet the pathogenic lifestyle requires that the host be damaged during this dependence. It is clear that pathogenic strategies are successful in evolutionary terms because a diverse array of pathogens exists in nature. Pathogens also evolve using a broad range of molecular mechanisms to acquire and modulate existing virulence traits in order to achieve this success. Detailing the benefit of enhanced selection derived through virulence and understanding the mechanisms through which virulence evolves are important to understanding the natural world and both have implications for human health.

【 授权许可】

CC BY