Mast Cells and Basophils: From Malevolent Design to Coevolutionary Arms Race

Author(s)

Sa-Nunes, Anderson ; Oliveira, Carlo J. F. ; Ribeiro, Jose M.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Trends in Parasitology; v. 36, n. 8, p. 5-pg., 2020-08-01.

Abstract

Mast cells and basophils are central to acquired resistance against blood-feeding arthropods which, in turn, counteract these cells by modulating their biological activities. The phenotypic exuberance displayed in this battlefield points to a reciprocal selective pressure suggesting a coevolutionary arms race that shapes both ectoparasites and vertebrate hosts. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 13/26450-2 - Molecular characterization of the interactions among ticks, rickettsiae and vertebrate hosts
• Grantee: Sirlei Daffre
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants