Determining the pathogenicity and virulence of parasites on animal models

The aim of this review is to present various animal organisms used to determine the pathogenicity and virulence of old and new human and animal pathogens based on animal studies, cell cultures, macrophages and other models. The animal models presented in this study, in addition to the most popular organisms such as the laboratory mouse, rat, guinea pig and monkey, are also less popular models, such as zebrafish (Danio rerio) or chicken embryos in eggs. These animals are used to study the pathogenicity of parasites such as Acanthamoeba, Naegleria fowlerii, Toxoplasma gondii, Entamoeba histolytica and Besnoitia caprae and other species. In addition to animal models, we also present models using cell cultures, macrophages and computer methods. We also answer questions about what experimental methods allow to differentiate species and populations in terms of pathogenicity and virulence.