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Pathogen-host interactions antigenic variation v. somatic adaptations /

This volume provides in-depth reviews of model systems that exemplify the arms race in host-pathogen interactions. Somatic adaptations are responsible for the individualization of biological responses to the environment, and the continual struggle between host immune systems and invading pathogens h...

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Bibliographic Details
Corporate Author: SpringerLink (Online service)
Other Authors: Hsu, Ellen (Editor), Du Pasquier, Louis (Editor)
Format: eBook
Language:English
Published: Cham : Springer, 2015.
Series:Results and problems in cell differentiation ; 57.
Physical Description:
1 online resource.
Subjects:
Online Access:SpringerLink - Click here for access
Description
Summary:This volume provides in-depth reviews of model systems that exemplify the arms race in host-pathogen interactions. Somatic adaptations are responsible for the individualization of biological responses to the environment, and the continual struggle between host immune systems and invading pathogens has given rise to corresponding processes that produce molecular variation. Whether in mollusks or human beings, various host somatic mechanisms have evolved independently, providing responses to counter rapidly-changing pathogens. The pathways they utilize can include non-heritable changes involving RNA and post-translational modifications, or changes that produce somatic DNA recombination and mutation. For infectious organisms such as protozoans and flatworms, antigenic variation is central to their survival strategy. Evolving the ability to evade the host immune system not only increases their chances of survival but is also necessary for successful re-infection within the host population.
Physical Description:
1 online resource.
Bibliography:Includes bibliographical references and index.
ISBN:9783319208190
3319208195