Interactions between microsporidia and other members of the microbiome

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Parasitology
• Immunology

Background:

• The microbiome comprises microbes associated with a host organism.
• Microsporidia are intracellular eukaryotic parasites infecting diverse animal hosts.
• Recent research highlights the significant relationship between microsporidia and host microbiomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the prevalence and impact of microsporidia within animal microbiomes.
• To explore the spectrum of microsporidia-host interactions, from mutualism to pathogenesis.
• To discuss the role of other microbes, particularly bacteria, in modulating microsporidia infections.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on microsporidia and microbiome interactions.
• Analysis of reports on microsporidia prevalence in invertebrates and vertebrates.
• Examination of mechanisms by which microsporidia affect microbiome composition and host immunity.

Main Results:

• Microsporidia are frequently detected components of invertebrate and vertebrate microbiomes.
• Microsporidia infections can cause significant microbiome dysbiosis, altering microbial diversity.
• Host immune responses and tissue morphology are modulated by microsporidia, influencing microbial interactions.

Conclusions:

• Microsporidia exert complex influences on host microbiomes, with implications for host health.
• Bacterial species demonstrate inhibitory effects against microsporidia through various mechanisms.
• Future research should focus on elucidating the intricate interactions within the microsporidia-microbiome ecosystem.