Trends in parasitology最新文献

Toxoplasma gondii is a widespread Apicomplexan parasite that affects approximately one-third of the global population. The development and clinical features of toxoplasmosis are closely related to the immune status of the population. While most immunocompetent individuals are asymptomatic after primary acquired infection, immunocompromised patients may develop a range of severe clinical symptoms and complications. In the case of pregnant women the fetuses are at risk of clinical severity following primary infection during pregnancy. This review aims to elucidate the characteristics of immune interaction patterns in individuals with different immune statuses and provide a theoretical basis for more effective, accurate toxoplasmosis treatment strategies. These findings can achieve targeted and precise prevention and control for different groups, effectively guaranteeing public health security.

Erythropoiesis, the production of red blood cells (RBCs), is a tightly regulated process essential for hematologic health. This system significantly shifts during aging, impacting RBC production and function. In this review, we examine erythropoiesis stages and highlight major age-related changes in stem cells, transcription factors, and key regulators such as erythropoietin and iron. We then explore mechanisms driving the high prevalence of anemia in the elderly - chronic disease, sepsis, and unexplained anemia - while discussing current therapies and gaps in management. Finally, we introduce two underexplored models for studying aging RBCs: malaria and microgravity. Plasmodium infection and spaceflight mirror key features of age-related erythropoietic dysfunction and RBC morphological alterations, offering insights into mechanisms of anemia in the elderly.

Blastocystis, a prevalent eukaryote in human stool, may represent a core but cyclically abundant gut resident rather than a sporadic microorganism. Its fluctuating detectability might reflect host-microbe-environment dynamics and diagnostic limitations. Longitudinal sampling and advanced detection methods are essential to elucidate its ecological role and clinical significance.

Ticks and tick-borne diseases represent a major threat to livestock health and productivity, particularly in (sub)tropical regions. Chemical acaricides remain the main control method, but repeated use has driven resistance and raised concerns about food safety, welfare, and environmental impact. Limited development of new ectoparasiticides has left farmers dependent on outdated options. Integrated tick management offers a sustainable approach by combining acaricides with biological controls, vaccines, resistant breeds, and improved husbandry. However, adoption is hindered by the availability, accessibility, and acceptance of current alternatives, as well as by the lack of innovative solutions. Key priorities include resistance monitoring, improving stewardship, and promoting farmer-led solutions. Long-term success will require aligning innovations with local needs, building trust, and fostering collaboration across public, private, and communities.

A recent study by Zaković et al. demonstrates that disruption of REL2 in mosquitoes induces gut dysbiosis dominated by Serratia species, increases mosquito mortality after blood feeding, and unexpectedly reduces susceptibility to malaria infection. These findings reveal complex, functionally significant crosstalk between host immunity, gut microbiota, and the development of malaria parasites.

Amphibians face numerous threats, including climate change, pollution, and emerging infectious diseases. While chytrid fungi have dominated recent research on amphibian pathogens, helminth parasites, despite their diversity and potential to impact amphibian health, remain underexplored, particularly in Europe. The goal of this review is to highlight the current state of knowledge on amphibian helminths in Europe, including current knowledge on species diversity, parasites' life history, and the availability of molecular data. We outline major challenges in amphibian helminthology and propose strategies to address them, aiming to stimulate renewed research interest. Additionally, we provide a comprehensive list of documented helminth species and their amphibian hosts, including information on publicly available DNA sequences, offering a foundation for future studies.

Lutzomyia longipalpis is a phlebotomine sand fly of medico-veterinary importance and the primary vector of Leishmania infantum in the Americas. Its taxonomic status has been debated for decades, with ongoing uncertainty about whether it represents a single species or a species complex. While multiple studies support the existence of cryptic species, no formal taxonomic revision has been conducted to describe the putative species within the so-called L. longipalpis complex. A crucial step in resolving this issue is the designation of a name-bearing specimen (neotype) for L. longipalpis sensu stricto. Herein, I address the ongoing debate surrounding the L. longipalpis complex and provide insights to advance its taxonomic resolution and public health implications.