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Updated: May 16, 2026

High-Throughput Transcriptome Analysis for Investigating Host-Pathogen Interactions
Published on: March 5, 2022
Horizontal transfer and the evolution of host-pathogen interactions.
1Albacete Science and Technology Park, 02006 Albacete, Spain ; Regional Center for Biomedical Research (CRIB), The University of Castilla-La Mancha, Calle Almansa 14, 02006 Albacete, Spain.
Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is increasingly recognized in eukaryotes, impacting host-pathogen interactions. DNA sequences transferred via HGT can alter pathogen infectivity and host defense mechanisms, influencing coevolution.
Area of Science:
- Genetics and Genomics
- Evolutionary Biology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is a well-established phenomenon in viruses and prokaryotes.
- The significance of HGT in eukaryotic organisms has gained recent recognition.
- Close biological proximity, such as between pathogens and hosts, promotes DNA transfer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the role of horizontal gene transfer in eukaryotic systems.
- To explore how transferred DNA sequences influence host-pathogen interactions.
- To understand the impact of HGT on the coevolution of hosts and pathogens.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on horizontal gene transfer in eukaryotes.
- Analysis of mechanisms facilitating DNA transfer between organisms.
- Examination of sequence co-option by hosts and pathogens.
Main Results:
- Transferred DNA sequences can be utilized by pathogens to enhance survival and infectivity.
- Hosts can adopt foreign DNA to bolster defenses against pathogens.
- HGT introduces novel genetic material, driving changes in host-pathogen dynamics.
Conclusions:
- Horizontal gene transfer is a significant evolutionary force in eukaryotes.
- HGT contributes to the adaptation and diversification of both hosts and pathogens.
- Understanding HGT is crucial for deciphering host-pathogen coevolutionary trajectories.
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