Search Results (278)

Rhizosphere microecology plays a key hub role in resource competition between parasitic plants and their hosts; however, the niche differentiation characteristics of the two within the parasitic interaction network remain poorly understood. In this study, the hemiparasitic plant Monochasma savatieri Franch. ex Maxim and its host plant blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) were used as research subjects to systematically analyze the differentiation characteristics of soil environmental factors and rhizosphere microorganisms within the parasitic system. The results showed that the parasitic relationship did not lead to convergence of the rhizosphere microenvironments between the two plants. The rhizosphere nutrient content of M. savatieri was significantly lower than that of its host blueberry, while soil urease (S-UE) and nitrate reductase (S-NR) activities were significantly higher. Furthermore, significant differentiation was observed in the community structure and function of rhizosphere microorganisms at the genus level. The rhizosphere of M. savatieri directionally recruited specific microbial taxa, including Pseudonocardia and Nitrospira–F, which enhanced soil nitrogen turnover. Meanwhile, pathways related to the bacterial secretion system and biofilm formation were significantly upregulated, facilitating haustorium formation and infection. In contrast, the rhizosphere of the host blueberry directionally enriched taxa such as Bradyrhizobium and Colletotrichum, activating complex pathways involved in xenobiotic degradation, energy compensation, and chemical defense. This study preliminarily elucidates the adaptive symbiotic mechanisms between M. savatieri and its host blueberry, providing a microecological basis for optimizing the artificial cultivation of M. savatieri. Full article

Among myrmecophilous insects, beetles represent the most specialised and diverse group. Myrmecophily is a complex evolutionary strategy encompassing a wide spectrum of interactions with ants, ranging from occasional to obligate relationships, and from mutualistic associations (e.g., trophobionts) to fully parasitic symbioses (social parasites). One of the most remarkable examples of an obligate ant parasite is Paussus favieri Fairmaire,1851 (Carabidae, Paussinae, Paussini), a West-Mediterranean ant-nest beetle. This species spends most of its life inside the nests of Pheidole pallidula (Nylander, 1849) (Hymenoptera, Formicidae), where it exploits the colony’s most valuable resources (ant larvae, pupae, and tenerals) through a suite of sophisticated chemical and structural adaptations that allow it to evade detection and integrate seamlessly into the host colony. For these reasons, P. favieri has recently emerged as a key model organism for studying host–parasite interactions in eusocial systems. In this study, we investigated possible correlations between the nervous system of P. favieri and its remarkable morphological and behavioural adaptations, shedding light on how an extreme environment such as the ant nest may have shaped the beetle’s brain. Our results, although requiring more in-depth analysis, reveal an exceptional development of the central body and the antennal lobes, which rank among the largest recorded across all insect species studied to date. We also report two previously undescribed morphological asymmetries affecting the optic lobes and mushroom bodies. Together, these findings provide new insights into the neuroanatomy of carabid beetles and, more broadly, into the biology of a unique model of ant parasitism, advancing our understanding of the evolutionary adaptations that characterise the highly specialised Paussinae subfamily, laying down the basis for further analysis. Full article

Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is an aggressive B-cell lymphoma endemic in children in regions of sub-Saharan Africa, where its incidence geographically overlaps holoendemic Plasmodium falciparum malaria and poorly controlled childhood Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection. Despite decades of research, the precise mechanistic synergy between these two pathogens remains incompletely defined. This review synthesizes current epidemiological, immunological, and molecular evidence to propose an integrated model for the etiology of endemic BL. We outline a paradoxical, dual-edged relationship wherein EBV infection during infancy may provide a short-term child survival advantage against severe malaria while simultaneously increasing the long-term oncogenic risk in B-cells infected by EBV. P. falciparum infection triggers polyclonal B-cell activation, increasing the probability of an activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID)-mediated c-MYC translocation in proportion to the recurrent parasite burden. Concurrently, EBV expands within this B-cell pool and modulates the host immune response, potentially through viral interleukin-10 (vIL-10), to prevent lethal malarial inflammation. At the cellular level, EBV provides a critical “second hit” when it establishes latency I infection that rescues c-MYC-translocated B-cells from apoptosis. This framework explains why BL manifests as a “tumor of malaria survivors,” peaking in incidence years after the highest-risk period for malaria mortality. Ultimately, this model underscores that malaria control is a critical form of cancer control and highlights key future directions for validating these pathways in prospective clinical studies. Full article

Gnathophis mystax (Delaroche, 1809) is a benthic eel widely distributed in the Mediterranean and eastern Atlantic, whose parasitic fauna remains known. This study provides the first parasitological assessment of this species from the southern Tyrrhenian Sea (Calabria, Italy). A total of 41 specimens were examined. All recovered nematodes were identified as Cucullanus sp., with prevalence values of 66.7% and 70.0% in Vibo Valentia and Gioia Tauro, and mean intensities of 2.71 and 3.00. No significative differences in length and weight were found between localities, and no significative differences in the prevalence and abundance of Cucullanus between localities were found. These results represent the first record of Cucullanus sp. in G. mystax. Further studies are required to elucidate the taxonomy of this nematode in Gnathophis mystax and of the order Anguilliformes. Full article

The aspidogastrean genus Lobatostoma Eckmann, 1932 remains poorly understood, with limited morphological and molecular data hindering its systematics and phylogenetic resolution. In the present study, we provide the first integrative characterisation of Lobatostoma anisotremum Oliva & Carvajal, 1984 from the southeastern Pacific coast of Peru, combining detailed morphological, ultrastructural and molecular analyses. A total of 137 specimens were recovered from the intestine of 65 Peruvian grunt, Anisotremus scapularis (Tschudi, 1846) (Haemulidae), with a prevalence of 43% and mean abundance of 2.1 ± 3.4 parasites per host. Morphological observations based on light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) allowed the refinement of diagnostic features, including tegumental papillae distribution, marginal organs, and reproductive structures. Molecular characterisation included the generation of novel sequences for the 18S rDNA and 28S rDNA gene fragments, representing the first comprehensive molecular dataset for L. anisotremum. Phylogenetic analyses based on 18S and 28S rDNA datasets consistently recovered L. anisotremum as sister to L. manteri Rohde, 1973, with strong support in the 28S analysis. In contrast, L. kemostoma (MacCallum & MacCallum, 1913) was recovered as a distinct and independent lineage, clearly separated from other congeners, supporting previous hypotheses of non-monophyly within Lobatostoma. These findings could be further supported by consistent morphological differences, particularly in cephalic lobe configuration, hindbody length and number of alveoli on the ventral disc. Our results also suggest that current family- and subfamily level classifications within Aspidogastridae Looss, 1901 may not reflect evolutionary relationships, as evidenced by the nested position of Multicalycidae Gibson & Chinabut, 1984 and the apparent non-monophyly of traditionally defined subfamilies. Although our data supports the distinctiveness of certain lineages, including L. kemostoma, we refrain from proposing formal taxonomic changes due to limited taxon sampling and the need for a comprehensive revision of the group. Overall, this study highlights the importance of integrative approaches in resolving the systematics of Aspidogastrea Faust & Tang, 1936 and provides a robust framework for future taxonomic and phylogenetic studies. Full article

Sarcocystis spp. are common intracellular protozoan parasites of wild and domestic ungulates, yet data regarding their occurrence and molecular diversity in roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) from Romania remain scarce. The present study investigated the epidemiology and molecular diversity of Sarcocystis spp. in roe deer from western Romania and assessed the phylogenetic relationships of the detected isolates. A total of 132 striated muscle samples were collected from roe deer harvested in Arad, Bihor, and Timiș counties during 2023–2025 and examined microscopically for the presence of sarcocysts. Positive samples were subjected to PCR amplification and sequencing of the 18S rRNA gene. Sarcocysts were detected in 102/132 animals, yielding an overall prevalence of 77.3% (95% CI: 69.4–83.7). Infection prevalence increased significantly with host age (p < 0.001) and was significantly higher in males than in females (p < 0.05), whereas no significant differences were observed among counties or sampling years (p > 0.05). Molecular analysis of 30 representative isolates identified three Sarcocystis species: Sarcocystis gracilis (46.7%), S. linearis (33.3%), and S. entzerothi (20.0%), with S. gracilis being the predominant species. Phylogenetic analysis based on partial 18S rRNA sequences confirmed species-level identification and demonstrated close clustering of Romanian isolates with homologous European reference sequences, indicating high genetic similarity and limited phylogeographic structuring. To the authors’ knowledge, this study represents the first molecular characterization of Sarcocystis spp. in roe deer from Romania and expands current knowledge on the epidemiology, species diversity, and phylogenetic relationships of roe deer-associated Sarcocystis in Europe. Full article

Gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) represent a major and persistent threat to the health and productivity of small ruminants. Increasing anthelmintic resistance has made traditional drugs less effective, requiring sustainable alternatives. Among the most promising solutions are natural anthelmintics: bioactive compounds and organisms derived from plants, essential oils, condensed tannins, saponins, probiotics, and nematophagous fungi. These natural agents are not just supplementary but vital for integrated parasite control. This review examines the host–parasite relationship, focusing on resistance, tolerance, and resilience, and discusses the impact of GINs on productivity. It evaluates natural anthelmintics, including their mechanisms, efficacy, benefits, and safety. To ensure the successful integration of natural anthelmintics into mainstream parasite control programs, future research must prioritize real-world validation, longitudinal safety assessments, and comprehensive cost–benefit analyses. Full article

Background: Neglected diseases caused by protozoan parasites remain a major public health burden, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Among the chemical motifs explored in antiparasitic drug discovery, guanidine-containing compounds have attracted considerable attention due to their strong cationic character, high capacity for hydrogen bonding, and versatility in interacting with biological targets. Methodology: This review summarizes advances reported in the last decade regarding guanidine derivatives with activity against pathogens associated with Chagas disease, human African trypanosomiasis, Leishmaniasis, tuberculosis, toxoplasmosis, dengue and schistosomiasis. Results: Evidence gathered from synthetic, natural, and drug-repurposing studies indicates that the guanidine, guanidine-containing and guanidine-related compounds contribute to modulating biological activity by changing electrostatic interactions, hydrogen-bonding networks, and physicochemical properties, with enzymes, nucleic acids, and membrane-associated targets essential for parasite survival. Across the analyzed studies, several emerging structure–activity relationship trends were identified, including the contribution of polycationic or dicationic architectures, the influence of halogenated or lipophilic substituents, and the dependence of biological activity on the complete molecular framework, including heterocyclic systems, macrocycles, peptide conjugates, hybrid scaffolds, and repurposed drugs. In addition to direct antiparasitic effects, certain guanidine-containing and guanidine-related compounds demonstrate immunomodulatory or host-protective properties, expanding the therapeutic relevance of this class. Despite promising in vitro results, protonation trapping, efflux pump susceptibility, and pharmacokinetic limitations such as poor oral absorption, high polarity, plasma protein binding and limited membrane permeability remain significant challenges for clinical translation. Nonetheless, the integration of medicinal chemistry, computational modeling, and biological screening continues to accelerate the identification of optimized scaffolds. Conclusions: Overall, guanidine-based compounds constitute a promising scaffold for the development of new therapeutic strategies targeting neglected parasitic diseases, and further structural optimization may enable the emergence of candidates with improved efficacy, selectivity, and drug-like properties. Full article

Understanding how sublethal insecticide exposure affects natural enemies is crucial for sustainable pest management, yet such effects remain largely unexplored in some scelionid parasitoids, including Telenomus busseolae Gahan (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae). This study evaluated the compatibility of widely used insecticides with different modes of action—imidacloprid, indoxacarb, teflubenzuron, and chlorantraniliprole—with the biological control of the Mediterranean corn borer, Sesamia nonagrioides (Lefèbvre) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), by the egg parasitoid T. busseolae, a key natural enemy. Risk quotients (RQ), calculated as the ratio of field concentrations to LC₅₀ (median lethal concentration) values, indicated low acute risk for all insecticides. Sublethal effects on adult parasitoids were assessed at LC₂₅ concentrations using the age–stage, two-sex life table approach revealing significant impacts on longevity, fecundity, oviposition duration, and population growth parameters, including intrinsic rate of increase (r) and finite rate of increase (λ), with the most pronounced effects observed under imidacloprid exposure. Host exploitation remained mostly unaffected except under imidacloprid, which reduced net parasitism rate (P₀), while the transformation rate (Q_p = P₀/R₀), representing the relationship between net parasitism (P₀) and net reproductive rate (R₀) at the population level, the stable parasitism rate (ψ), representing parasitism capacity under a stable age–stage structure, and the finite parasitism rate (ω), integrating parasitism capacity with population growth to describe overall parasitism potential, were unchanged. Population projections over 60 days (three generations) suggested the greatest decline under imidacloprid exposure. These findings demonstrate that even sublethal exposure can affect parasitoid fitness, host utilization, and population trajectories, emphasizing the importance of choosing insecticides that are selective for T. busseolae to maintain effective biological control. Full article

Infectious diseases remain a major global health challenge, driven by antimicrobial resistance, pathogen persistence, and the limited integration of mechanistically innovative therapeutic approaches. Emerging evidence indicates that epigenetic regulation is fundamental to host–pathogen interactions, influencing transcriptional programmes associated with virulence, immune evasion, stress adaptation, and phenotypic plasticity. In organisms such as bacteria, parasites, and intracellular pathogens, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Plasmodium falciparum, chromatin-associated regulators and DNA-modifying enzymes have been identified as dosage-sensitive determinants of infection outcomes. Traditional strategies focus primarily on occupancy-driven enzymatic inhibition. In contrast, targeted protein degradation (TPD) introduces an event-driven pharmacological paradigm in which transient ligand engagement triggers sustained depletion of regulatory proteins. Platforms such as proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) and BacPROTACs exemplify the ability to exploit host and pathogen proteolytic systems, thereby expanding the druggable proteome beyond conventional small-molecule targets. This review examines the relationship between epigenetic regulation and pathogen survival, highlights recent advances in degradation technologies, and discusses conceptual and translational challenges in implementing TPD in antimicrobial and antiparasitic drug discovery. Full article

A microsporidian species, Glugea sp., was identified infecting the visceral cavity of commercial sardines (Sardina pilchardus) from an Atlantic fishery. Macroscopic examination revealed a white, friable mass that readily disintegrates, releasing spherical to ovoid microsporidian spores. Ultrastructural analysis shows an isofilar polar tube with 10–15 coils arranged in one to three rows. The study combined macrophotography, light microscopy, histological staining, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and molecular analyses. Morphologically, Glugea sp. shares some features with Glugea vincentiae; however, molecular data do not support a close phylogenetic relationship between these two species. Phylogenetic analysis based on 18S rRNA sequences places the organism within a clade comprising G. plecoglossi, G. thunni, G. atherinae, G. gasterostei, G. hertwigi and G. anomala. Despite the high sequence similarity observed within this group, morphological and ultrastructural characteristics allowed differentiation of the present species, highlighting the limitations of relying solely on conserved molecular markers for species delimitation. A comprehensive morphological and molecular description of Glugea sp. is provided. Given the ecological and economic relevance of microsporidia, as well as their recognized role in animal and human disease, this new host–parasite association may have implications for fisheries and food safety, particularly considering the widespread consumption of sardines. Full article

The present study aimed to evaluate whether commonly used condition indices reflect parasite load and bacterial colonization in juvenile Cyprinus carpio under natural environmental conditions in the Lower Danube River. A total of 260 specimens were examined for parasitological, microbiological, and biometric parameters, including 20 individuals analyzed for bacterial communities. Twenty-three parasite taxa belonging to eight major taxonomic groups were identified. Ectoparasites were found on the gills, skin, and fins, with monogeneans and ciliates, notably Dactylogyrus ssp. and Trichodina ssp., representing the dominant groups. Infection intensity was generally low to moderate, and histopathological examination revealed only mild epithelial alterations, including focal hemorrhage and mucus hypersecretion in more heavily infected individuals. Microbiological analysis identified six bacterial taxa associated with the skin, with Aeromonas hydrophila being the most frequently detected species. Correlation analyses showed no significant relationships between parasite abundance and condition indices (Fulton’s K, Le Cren’s Kn, scaled mass index, and BMI), although a slight reduction in Fulton’s K was observed in infected individuals. These findings indicate a stable host–parasite–microbiota equilibrium under natural environmental conditions. The results provide baseline ecological data that contribute to understanding fish health dynamics in the Lower Danube River and may support future monitoring and management strategies. Full article

Climate change significantly impacts agricultural ecosystems through rising temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, increasing atmospheric CO₂ levels, and more frequent extreme weather events. These environmental changes have a pronounced effect on plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs; phylum Nematoda), which cause serious crop losses on a global scale. This review aims to provide a comprehensive evaluation of current knowledge on how major climate change drivers influence the biology, population dynamics, host–plant interactions, and geographic distribution of PPNs in agricultural systems. Recent studies show that rising temperatures accelerate nematode development, increasing the number of generations within a production season and facilitating the spread of many economically important species toward higher latitudes and elevations. Changes in precipitation patterns and soil moisture directly affect nematode survival, mobility, and infection success, and these effects often vary depending on regional conditions and nematode species. Elevated atmospheric CO₂ levels modify plant–nematode interactions by increasing root biomass, altering rhizosphere processes, and regulating plant defense pathways (e.g., jasmonic acid and salicylic acid signaling), which may enhance host susceptibility and infection intensity. Furthermore, extreme climate events can disrupt the natural balance in soil ecosystems, weakening natural antagonist–nematode relationships. However, responses of PPNs to climate change are not uniform, and contrasting findings across studies indicate that these responses are strongly shaped by species-specific traits and environmental variability. In addition, future research should focus on long-term and multi-factorial field studies to better capture the combined effects of climate drivers. Overall, climate change is expected to increase PPN prevalence and drive shifts in their geographic distribution, highlighting the need for climate-sensitive and regionally adapted nematode management strategies. Full article

Parasitism plays an important role in many fundamental ecological processes and is widespread both geographically and taxonomically. Interactions between parasites and hosts are often complex, and much attention has been paid to the relationship between host traits and parasitism. However, a comprehensive review of the association between host personality and parasitic infection is lacking. In this review, we systematically synthesized 54 studies published over the past few decades. Generally, the relationship between animal personality traits and parasitic infection is complex, and no generic pattern exists. Many biological processes may be involved, and biological factors (such as host sex and parasite type) may significantly shape the personality–infection relationship. Different personality traits may also indicate different relationships with parasitic infection. We confirmed that host personality and parasitic infection exhibit a mutually influential, multi-feedback dynamic. Finally, several research gaps were described, and we emphasized the importance of incorporating the BACI design in experiments. Full article

Last instar larva and pupa of Hypera libanotidis Reitter, 1896 (Curculionidae: Hyperini) are described for the first time and compared with 44 other hyperine taxa. Larval morphology generally matches the diagnostic characters of Hyperini but shows distinctive traits, including thorn-like setae on conspicuous black protuberances, relatively long body setae, and dense spiculate coverings in larvae and pupae. Several unusual pupal characters, such as an atypical mesocoxal seta and a peculiar spiracular covering, further distinguish this species. These characters indicate close morphological affinity with species within the subgenus Eririnomorphus and also the genus Metadonus, suggesting a potentially close phylogenetic relationship. Biological observations confirm typical hyperine traits, including ectophytic larval feeding, cryptic coloration, and cocoon construction prior to pupation. Larval coloration, especially in early instars, partly corresponds with the host plant Libanotis pyrenaica. Larvae pupate in mesh-like cocoons on host plant remains, and no larval parasitism was observed. The species is associated with xerothermic loess grasslands, with adults apparently overwintering. Full article