Inherited microorganisms, sex-specific virulence and reproductive parasitism

摘要: Parasites show an amazing repertoire of adaptations, highlighted by complex life cycles that allow both survival in the host and transmission among hosts. However, there is one heterogeneous group microorganisms whose adaptations are perhaps even more surprising: parthenogenesis induction, feminization genetic males, killing male hosts sperm-mediated sterilization uninfected eggs. The common feature these their mode transmission: inheritance from mother to offspring. Here, we present introduction hereditary symbiosis, focusing on microsporidia bacteria manipulate reproduction arthropods (reproductive parasites). We also discuss implications microorganisms, Wolbachia, for control arthropod pests vectors therapy filarial diseases. Finally, whether some parasites vertebrates might sex-specific virulence.