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Updated: Jan 21, 2026
07:35
Double Labeling Immunofluorescence using Antibodies from the Same Species to Study Host-Pathogen Interactions
Published on: July 10, 2021
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Parasites and wildlife in a changing world: The vector-host- pathogen interaction as a learning case
Annapaola Rizzoli1, Valentina Tagliapietra1, Francesca Cagnacci1
1Department of Biodiversity and Molecular Ecology, Research and Innovation Centre, Fondazione Edmund Mach, 38010, San Michele all'Adige, Trento, Italy.
Summary
Global changes impact wildlife diseases. Understanding vector-host interactions is key to predicting zoonotic disease risks from tick-borne encephalitis virus and West Nile virus.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Epidemiology
- Parasitology
Background:
- Anthropogenic changes (climate, land use, biodiversity) significantly influence parasite-host interactions and the emergence of wildlife zoonotic diseases.
- Vector-borne pathogen transmission is sensitive to these changes due to complex cycles involving vectors, hosts, and pathogens.
- Wildlife reservoirs play a crucial role in the transmission dynamics of many zoonotic diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the impact of major anthropogenic changes on the vectorial capacity for tick-borne and mosquito-borne pathogens.
- To review current knowledge on two emerging European vector-borne viruses: Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) and West Nile virus (WNV).
- To highlight the importance of vector-to-host ratios in determining pathogen transmission intensity and human infection risk.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of recent advances on TBEV and WNV.
- Analysis of the effects of global change scenarios on vector-borne disease dynamics.
- Focus on the interplay between environmental factors, vector populations, host availability, and pathogen transmission.
Main Results:
- Variations in vector-to-host ratios are critical determinants of pathogen transmission intensity for TBEV and WNV.
- Anthropogenic changes can alter these ratios, thereby influencing the risk of human infection.
- Current data underscore the complexity of forecasting disease hazards under global change.
Conclusions:
- Predicting vector-borne disease risks requires a comprehensive understanding of ecological and environmental drivers.
- Long-term, multidisciplinary studies within a One Health framework are essential for effective forecasting.
- Adapting public health strategies to global change is crucial for mitigating zoonotic disease threats.
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