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Integrating hybridization and introgression into host-parasite epidemiology, ecology, and evolution
Ben Lukubye1, David J Civitello1
1Department of Biology, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
Trends in Parasitology
|January 10, 2025
Summary
Hybridization between host and parasite species creates novel genotypes with altered disease traits. Understanding these hybrid genotypes is crucial for managing emerging infectious diseases in a changing world.
Area of Science:
- Ecology
- Evolutionary Biology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Hybridization and introgression between host or parasite species are increasing due to climate change and urbanization.
- These crosses can generate novel genotypes with altered traits like transmission rate, virulence, and resistance.
- The impact of hybridization on host-parasite interactions is underappreciated in current research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the emergence and relevance of eukaryotic hybrid genotypes in disease dynamics.
- To explore the implications of hybridization for host-parasite epidemiology, ecology, and evolution.
Main Methods:
- This study is a theoretical exploration and synthesis of existing research.
- It addresses pressing questions regarding the emergence and impact of hybrid genotypes.
Main Results:
- Hybridization can lead to novel parasite and host genotypes with potentially significant impacts on disease dynamics.
- The study highlights the need for greater empirical and theoretical attention to these phenomena.
Conclusions:
- Hybrid genotypes pose emerging challenges for human, plant, and animal health.
- Further research is needed to fully understand and predict the consequences of hybridization for disease dynamics and evolution.
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