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How does host genetic diversity and immune status impact on the evolution of virulence?
The notion that the fitness (and virulence) of a particular pathogen genotype depends on the genotype of their host underpins ideas of coevolution. Host genotype by parasite genotype (G x G) interactions could limit virulence if lines that are virulent (fitter) in one host genotype are avirulent in another, and vice versa. Given the interplay between host and parasite ligands and receptors, such a possibility is intuitively appealing. If it is so, then simple models of virulence evolution would not work, and virulence diversity could be maintained.
In semi-immune or vaccinated hosts, what are virulence-transmission relationships like? Will more virulent strains have a greater relative fitness advantage in semi-immune hosts, or in naïve hosts?
Group members involved: Vicki Barclay,
Collaborators: Robin
Anders , Margaret Mackinnon.