Host-parasite Interactions; From Co-evolutionary Changes to Genomic Insights

Abstract

Host-parasite interaction belongs to the association between two biologically different organisms in which the host delivers food and shelter for the parasite and in return the parasite reproduces itself in the host body. There are many kinds of host-parasite relationships including parasitism, mutualism, and commensalism. The potent interaction between the host and parasite is regulated by the evolutionary changes over space and time. Host-parasite interconnection is the basic feature of the maintenance of ecology and biodiversity. The association between the host and parasite establishes an equilibrium in which the host unfolds protective strategies against parasites and the parasites develop mechanisms to elude the host’s defenses and spread infections. This dynamic interaction between the host and parasite mainly depends on the host's immune system, the severity of infection, the load of parasites in the body, and the ecological requirements. Moreover, environmental conditions, locomotion, and genetic factors of the host also influence host-parasite interactions. The pathogenicity of parasites is determined by the sensitivity and resistivity of the host's immune response. As parasites evolve, they employ diverse strategies to manipulate the host’s behavior and adapt to changing atmospheres. The education of the host-parasite association is essential for proper control and surveillance of parasitic diseases. For the prevention of parasitic infections, different therapeutic measures have been devised. Researchers are performing many types of procedures to sustain the ecosystem and fitness of individuals using host-parasite interactions. The purpose of this review was to enhance the importance of the host-parasite interaction in our environment.