About this Research Topic
Microbiome Alterations and Diversity:
Parasitic infections have been associated with alterations in gut microbiome composition and diversity. These alterations can stem from direct interactions between parasites and gut-dwelling microorganisms or indirectly through parasite-induced changes in the host environment. Shifts in microbial diversity and relative abundance have been observed during various parasitic infections, suggesting a potential role for parasites in driving microbial community dynamics.
Metabolic and Immunological Impact:
Parasites can impact the gut microbiome's metabolic functions, affecting the breakdown of dietary components and the production of bioactive molecules. Additionally, parasite-induced immune responses may inadvertently influence the gut microbiome by altering immune cell populations and the local immune environment. These changes can have downstream effects on the host's metabolic profile and immune homeostasis.
Host-Parasite-Microbiome Crosstalk:
Increasing evidence suggests the presence of a tripartite crosstalk between the host, parasites, and the gut microbiome. Parasites may exploit the gut microbiome as a niche, aiding their colonization and survival within the host. Conversely, the gut microbiome might influence the host's susceptibility to parasitic infections by modulating immune responses or producing antimicrobial substances that affect parasite viability.
Implications for Human Health:
Understanding the consequences of parasite-induced alterations in the gut microbiome has implications for human health. The gut microbiome's role in nutrient absorption, immune regulation, and resistance to infections suggests that changes induced by parasites could influence disease outcomes, treatment responses, and even vaccine efficacy.
This research topic aims to collect a wide range of articles on the areas above. We will accept all article types permissible in the Frontiers in Parasitology submission guidelines. This includes; Reviews, Original Research Articles, Brief Research Report, and others.
Keywords: Microbial community dynamics, Host-microbiota interactions, Metabolic modulation, Immune modulation, Disease susceptibility
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.