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Ravindran S, Underwood SL, Dorrens J, Seeker LA, Watt K, Wilbourn RV, Sparks AM, Sinclair R, Chen Z, Pilkington JG, McNeilly TN, Harrington L, Pemberton JM, Nussey DH, Froy H. No correlative evidence of costs of infection or immunity on leucocyte telomere length in a wild population of Soay sheep. Proc Biol Sci 2024; 291:20232946. [PMID: 38565156 PMCID: PMC10987235 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.2946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Telomere length (TL) is a biomarker hypothesized to capture evolutionarily and ecologically important physiological costs of reproduction, infection and immunity. Few studies have estimated the relationships among infection status, immunity, TL and fitness in natural systems. The hypothesis that short telomeres predict reduced survival because they reflect costly consequences of infection and immune investment remains largely untested. Using longitudinal data from a free-living Soay sheep population, we tested whether leucocyte TL was predicted by infection with nematode parasites and antibody levels against those parasites. Helminth parasite burdens were positively associated with leucocyte TL in both lambs and adults, which is not consistent with TL reflecting infection costs. We found no association between TL and helminth-specific IgG levels in either young or old individuals which suggests TL does not reflect costs of an activated immune response or immunosenescence. Furthermore, we found no support for TL acting as a mediator of trade-offs between infection, immunity and subsequent survival in the wild. Our results suggest that while variation in TL could reflect short-term variation in resource investment or environmental conditions, it does not capture costs of infection and immunity, nor does it behave like a marker of an individual's helminth-specific antibody immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjana Ravindran
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Sarah L. Underwood
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Jennifer Dorrens
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Luise A. Seeker
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Kathryn Watt
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Rachael V. Wilbourn
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Alexandra M. Sparks
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
- School of Biosciences, University of Sheffield, Sheffield S10 2TN, UK
| | - Rona Sinclair
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Zhulin Chen
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Jill G. Pilkington
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Tom N. McNeilly
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - Lea Harrington
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Canada H3C 3J7
| | - Josephine M. Pemberton
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Daniel H. Nussey
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
| | - Hannah Froy
- Institute of Ecology and Evolution, School of Biological Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH9 3FL, UK
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Mair I, Fenn J, Wolfenden A, Lowe AE, Bennett A, Muir A, Thompson J, Dieumerci O, Logunova L, Shultz S, Bradley JE, Else KJ. The adaptive immune response to Trichuris in wild versus laboratory mice: An established model system in context. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012119. [PMID: 38626206 PMCID: PMC11051619 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Laboratory model organisms have provided a window into how the immune system functions. An increasing body of evidence, however, suggests that the immune responses of naive laboratory animals may differ substantially to those of their wild counterparts. Past exposure, environmental challenges and physiological condition may all impact on immune responsiveness. Chronic infections of soil-transmitted helminths, which we define as establishment of adult, fecund worms, impose significant health burdens on humans, livestock and wildlife, with limited treatment success. In laboratory mice, Th1 versus Th2 immune polarisation is the major determinant of helminth infection outcome. Here we compared antigen-specific immune responses to the soil-transmitted whipworm Trichuris muris between controlled laboratory and wild free-ranging populations of house mice (Mus musculus domesticus). Wild mice harbouring chronic, low-level infections produced lower levels of cytokines in response to Trichuris antigen than laboratory-housed C57BL/6 mice. Wild mouse effector/memory CD4+ T cell phenotype reflected the antigen-specific cytokine response across the Th1/Th2 spectrum. Increasing egg shedding was associated with body condition loss. However, local Trichuris-specific Th1/Th2 balance was positively associated with worm burden only in older wild mice. Thus, although the fundamental relationships between the CD4+ T helper cell response and resistance to T. muris infection are similar in both laboratory and wild M. m. domesticus, there are quantitative differences and age-specific effects that are analogous to human immune responses. These context-dependent immune responses demonstrate the fundamental importance of understanding the differences between model and natural systems for translating mechanistic models to 'real world' immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Mair
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Manchester Environmental Research Institute, Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Fenn
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Wolfenden
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Ann E. Lowe
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Alex Bennett
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Muir
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jacob Thompson
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Olive Dieumerci
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Larisa Logunova
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Susanne Shultz
- School of Natural Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Janette E. Bradley
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn J. Else
- Lydia Becker Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Palacios-Marquez JJ, Guevara-Fiore P. Parasitism in viviparous vertebrates: an overview. Parasitol Res 2023; 123:53. [PMID: 38100003 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-023-08083-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
The reproductive mode of viviparity has independently evolved in various animal taxa. It refers to the condition in which the embryos or young develop inside the female's body during gestation, providing advantages such as protection, nutrition, and improved survival chances. However, parasites and diseases can be an evolutionary force that limit the host's resources, leading to physiological, morphological, and behavioral changes that impose additional costs on both the pregnant female and her offspring. This review integrates the primary literature published between 1980 and 2021 on the parasitism of viviparous hosts. We describe aspects such as reproductive investment in females, offspring sex ratios, lactation investment in mammals, alterations in birth intervals, current reproductive investment, variations between environments, immune system activity in response to immunological challenges, and other factors that can influence the interaction between viviparous females and parasites. Maintaining pregnancy incurs costs in managing the mother's resources and regulating the immune system's responses to the offspring, while simultaneously maintaining an adequate defense against parasites and pathogens. Parasites can significantly influence this reproductive mode: parasitized females adjust their investment in survival and reproduction based on their life history, environmental factors, and the diversity of encountered parasites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan J Palacios-Marquez
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Blvd. Valsequillo y Av. San Claudio, Edificio Bio-1, Ciudad Universitaria, Col. Jardines de San Manuel, 72580, Puebla, CP, Mexico
| | - Palestina Guevara-Fiore
- Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Blvd. Valsequillo y Av. San Claudio, Edificio Bio-1, Ciudad Universitaria, Col. Jardines de San Manuel, 72580, Puebla, CP, Mexico.
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4
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Tuliozi B, Tiezzi F, Schoepf I, Mancin E, Guzzo N, Mantovani R, Sartori C. Genetic correlations and causal effects of fighting ability on fitness traits in cattle reveal antagonistic trade-offs. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.972093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Complex genetic and phenotypic relationships are theorized to link different fitness components but revealing the correlations occurring among disparate traits requires large datasets of pedigreed populations. In particular, the association between traits beneficial to social dominance with health and fitness could be antagonistic, because of trade-offs, or positive, because of greater resource acquisition by dominant individuals. Studies investigating these relationships found some empirical evidence in support of both theories, mainly using multiple trait models (MTM). However, if a trait giving a social advantage is suspected to affect the expression of other traits, MTM could provide some bias, that structural equation models (SEM) could highlight. We used Aosta Chestnut-Black Pied cattle to investigate whether the fighting ability of cows (the capability of winning social dominance interactions) is genetically correlated with health and fitness traits. We ran both MTM and SEM using a Gibbs sampling algorithm to disentangle the possible causal effects of fighting ability from the genetic correlations that this trait shares with other traits: individual milk yield, somatic cells (representing mammary health), fertility, and longevity. We found antagonistic genetic correlations, similar under both approaches, for fighting ability vs. milk, somatic cells, and fertility, Accordingly, we found only a slight causal effects of fighting ability on these traits (–0.012 to 0.059 in standardized value). However, we found genetic correlations opposite in sign between fighting ability and longevity under MTM (0.237) and SEM (–0.183), suggesting a strong causal effect (0.386 standardized) of fighting ability on longevity. In other words, MTM found a positive correlation between longevity and fighting ability, while SEM found a negative correlation. The explanation could be that for economic reasons dominant cows are kept in this population for longer, thus attaining greater longevity: using MTM, the economic importance of competitions probably covers the true genetic correlation among traits. This artificially simulates a natural situation where an antagonistic genetic correlation between longevity and fighting ability appears positive under MTM due to a non-genetic advantage obtained by the best fighters. The use of SEM to properly assess the relationships among traits is suggested in both evolutionary studies and animal breeding.
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Smiley RA, Wagler BL, LaSharr TN, Denryter KA, Stephenson TR, Courtemanch AB, Mong TW, Lutz D, McWhirter D, Brimeyer D, Hnilicka P, Lowrey B, Monteith KL. Heterogeneity in risk‐sensitive allocation of somatic reserves in a long‐lived mammal. Ecosphere 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/ecs2.4161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A. Smiley
- Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources, Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Zoology and Physiology University of Wyoming Laramie Wyoming USA
| | - Brittany L. Wagler
- Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources, Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Zoology and Physiology University of Wyoming Laramie Wyoming USA
| | - Tayler N. LaSharr
- Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources, Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Zoology and Physiology University of Wyoming Laramie Wyoming USA
| | | | - Thomas R. Stephenson
- Sierra Nevada Bighorn Sheep Recovery Program, California Department of Fish and Wildlife Bishop California USA
| | | | - Tony W. Mong
- Wyoming Game and Fish Department Cody Wyoming USA
| | - Daryl Lutz
- Wyoming Game and Fish Department Lander Wyoming USA
| | | | - Doug Brimeyer
- Wyoming Game and Fish Department Cheyenne Wyoming USA
| | | | - Blake Lowrey
- Fish and Wildlife Ecology and Management Program, Department of Ecology Montana State University Bozeman Montana USA
| | - Kevin L. Monteith
- Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources, Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Zoology and Physiology University of Wyoming Laramie Wyoming USA
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6
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Douhard F, Doeschl‐Wilson AB, Corbishley A, Hayward AD, Marcon D, Weisbecker J, Aguerre S, Bordes L, Jacquiet P, McNeilly TN, Sallé G, Moreno‐Romieux C. The cost of host genetic resistance on body condition: evidence from divergently selected sheep. Evol Appl 2022; 15:1374-1389. [PMID: 36187187 PMCID: PMC9488686 DOI: 10.1111/eva.13442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Trade‐offs between host resistance to parasites and host growth or reproduction can occur due to allocation of limited available resources between competing demands. To predict potential trade‐offs arising from genetic selection for host resistance, a better understanding of the associated nutritional costs is required. Here, we studied resistance costs by using sheep from lines divergently selected on their resistance to a common blood‐feeding gastro‐intestinal parasite (Haemonchus contortus). First, we assessed the effects of selection for high or low host resistance on condition traits (body weight, back fat, and muscle thickness) and infection traits (parasite fecal egg excretion and loss in blood haematocrit) at various life stages, in particular during the periparturient period when resource allocation to immunity may limit host resistance. Second, we analysed the condition–infection relationship to detect a possible trade‐off, in particular during the periparturient period. We experimentally infected young females in four stages over their first 2 years of life, including twice around parturition (at 1 year and at 2 years of age). Linear mixed‐model analyses revealed a large and consistent between‐line difference in infection traits during growth and outside of the periparturient period, whereas this difference was strongly attenuated during the periparturient period. Despite their different responses to infection, lines had similar body condition traits. Using covariance decomposition, we then found that the phenotypic relationship between infection and condition was dominated by direct infection costs arising from parasite development within the host. Accounting for these within‐individual effects, a cost of resistance on body weight was detected among ewes during their first reproduction. Although this cost and the reproductive constraint on resistance are unlikely to represent a major concern for animal breeding in nutrient‐rich environments, this study provides important new insights regarding the nutritional costs of parasite resistance at different lifestages and how these may affect response to selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Douhard
- GenPhySEUniversité de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVTCastanet‐TolosanFrance
| | - Andrea B. Doeschl‐Wilson
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary StudiesUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Alexander Corbishley
- The Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary StudiesUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | | | | | | | - Sophie Aguerre
- GenPhySEUniversité de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVTCastanet‐TolosanFrance
| | - Léa Bordes
- UMR INRAE/ENVT 1225 IHAP, UMT Santé des Petits RuminantsEcole Nationale Vétérinaire de ToulouseToulouse cedex 03France
| | - Philippe Jacquiet
- UMR INRAE/ENVT 1225 IHAP, UMT Santé des Petits RuminantsEcole Nationale Vétérinaire de ToulouseToulouse cedex 03France
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Catalano S, La Morgia V, Molinar Min AR, Fanelli A, Meneguz PG, Tizzani P. Gastrointestinal Parasite Community and Phenotypic Plasticity in Native and Introduced Alien Lagomorpha. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12101287. [PMID: 35625133 PMCID: PMC9138120 DOI: 10.3390/ani12101287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The introduction of alien species outside their native range represents one of the main threats to biodiversity conservation and it is mainly driven by human activities. In this work, we used the introduction of an alien lagomorph (Sylvilagus floridanus) outside its natural range as a case study to describe and evaluate the long-term effects on the native lagomorph community. In particular, S. floridanus was host to different exotic parasites, which adapted to new biotic and abiotic conditions and, as a consequence, invaded and largely altered the parasite community of native Lagomorpha species. This work represents the first exploratory study on the ecological macro-community formed by native and alien host species and their parasitofauna. Further efforts are needed to fully understand the strategies and factors conditioning the evolution of these specific parasite communities, and more in general the factors influencing the effect and evolution of alien pathogens in a new geographic area. Abstract The Convention on Biological Diversity classifies “Invasive Alien Species” as those whose introduction and spread represents a threat for biodiversity. Introduction of alien pathogens, including parasites, is one of the main consequences of the introduction of invasive alien species. The objective of this work was to assess the parasite community composition in native lagomorphs (Lepus europaeus and Lepus timidus varronis) in sympatric and non-sympatric conditions with an alien lagomorph (Sylvilagus floridanus), and to evaluate the phenotypic traits of exotic parasites in such conditions. We firstly describe the characteristics of the parasite community in the different host species (richness, prevalence, abundance and intensity), and, secondly, the phenotypic traits of the observed parasite species in each host. Nine helminths were reported on: eight nematodes (Obeliscoides cuniculi, Trichostrongylus calcaratus, Trichostrongylus retortaeformis, Trichostrongylus affinis, Trichuris leporis, Trichostrongylus colubriformis, Passalurus ambiguus, and Nematodirus sp.) and one unidentified cestode. In addition, exotic parasites showed significantly different phenotypic plasticity after spillover from S. floridanus to L. europaeus, whereas endemic parasite species were not isolated in the alien S. floridanus. Our results highlight that the community of autochthonous and allochthonous Lagomorpha in northwestern Italy represents an extremely interesting system for modelling ecological and evolutionary interactions between parasites and their hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Catalano
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy;
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentlands Science Park, Penicuik EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - Valentina La Morgia
- Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Via Ca’ Fornacetta 9, Ozzano Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy;
| | - Anna Rita Molinar Min
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, 10095 Turin, Italy; (A.R.M.M.); (P.G.M.)
| | - Angela Fanelli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Bari, Valenzano, 70010 Bari, Italy;
| | - Pier Giuseppe Meneguz
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, 10095 Turin, Italy; (A.R.M.M.); (P.G.M.)
| | - Paolo Tizzani
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Largo Paolo Braccini 2, Grugliasco, 10095 Turin, Italy; (A.R.M.M.); (P.G.M.)
- Correspondence:
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8
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Bronikowski AM, Meisel RP, Biga PR, Walters J, Mank JE, Larschan E, Wilkinson GS, Valenzuela N, Conard AM, de Magalhães JP, Duan J, Elias AE, Gamble T, Graze R, Gribble KE, Kreiling JA, Riddle NC. Sex-specific aging in animals: Perspective and future directions. Aging Cell 2022; 21:e13542. [PMID: 35072344 PMCID: PMC8844111 DOI: 10.1111/acel.13542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex differences in aging occur in many animal species, and they include sex differences in lifespan, in the onset and progression of age-associated decline, and in physiological and molecular markers of aging. Sex differences in aging vary greatly across the animal kingdom. For example, there are species with longer-lived females, species where males live longer, and species lacking sex differences in lifespan. The underlying causes of sex differences in aging remain mostly unknown. Currently, we do not understand the molecular drivers of sex differences in aging, or whether they are related to the accepted hallmarks or pillars of aging or linked to other well-characterized processes. In particular, understanding the role of sex-determination mechanisms and sex differences in aging is relatively understudied. Here, we take a comparative, interdisciplinary approach to explore various hypotheses about how sex differences in aging arise. We discuss genomic, morphological, and environmental differences between the sexes and how these relate to sex differences in aging. Finally, we present some suggestions for future research in this area and provide recommendations for promising experimental designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M. Bronikowski
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal BiologyIowa State UniversityAmesIowaUSA
| | - Richard P. Meisel
- Department of Biology and BiochemistryUniversity of HoustonHoustonTexasUSA
| | - Peggy R. Biga
- Department of BiologyThe University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
| | - James R. Walters
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary BiologyThe University of KansasLawrenceKansasUSA
| | - Judith E. Mank
- Department of ZoologyUniversity of British ColumbiaVancouverBritish ColumbiaCanada
- Department of BioscienceUniversity of ExeterPenrynUK
| | - Erica Larschan
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and BiochemistryBrown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | | | - Nicole Valenzuela
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal BiologyIowa State UniversityAmesIowaUSA
| | - Ashley Mae Conard
- Department of Computer ScienceCenter for Computational and Molecular BiologyBrown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - João Pedro de Magalhães
- Integrative Genomics of Ageing GroupInstitute of Ageing and Chronic DiseaseUniversity of LiverpoolLiverpoolUK
| | | | - Amy E. Elias
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and BiochemistryBrown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - Tony Gamble
- Department of Biological SciencesMarquette UniversityMilwaukeeWisconsinUSA
- Milwaukee Public MuseumMilwaukeeWisconsinUSA
- Bell Museum of Natural HistoryUniversity of MinnesotaSaint PaulMinnesotaUSA
| | - Rita M. Graze
- Department of Biological SciencesAuburn UniversityAuburnAlabamaUSA
| | - Kristin E. Gribble
- Josephine Bay Paul Center for Comparative Molecular Biology and EvolutionMarine Biological LaboratoryWoods HoleMassachusettsUSA
| | - Jill A. Kreiling
- Department of Molecular Biology, Cell Biology and BiochemistryBrown UniversityProvidenceRhode IslandUSA
| | - Nicole C. Riddle
- Department of BiologyThe University of Alabama at BirminghamBirminghamAlabamaUSA
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9
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Beaumelle C, Redman EM, de Rijke J, Wit J, Benabed S, Debias F, Duhayer J, Pardonnet S, Poirel MT, Capron G, Chabot S, Rey B, Yannic G, Gilleard JS, Bourgoin G. Metabarcoding in two isolated populations of wild roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) reveals variation in gastrointestinal nematode community composition between regions and among age classes. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:594. [PMID: 34863264 PMCID: PMC8642965 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-05087-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Gastrointestinal nematodes are ubiquitous for both domestic and wild ungulates and have varying consequences for health and fitness. They exist as complex communities of multiple co-infecting species, and we have a limited understanding of how these communities vary in different hosts, regions and circumstances or of how this affects their impacts. Methods We have undertaken ITS2 rDNA nemabiome metabarcoding with next-generation sequencing on populations of nematode larvae isolated from 149 fecal samples of roe deer of different sex and age classes in the two isolated populations of Chizé and Trois Fontaines in France not co-grazing with any domestic ungulate species. Results We identified 100 amplified sequence variants (ASVs) that were assigned to 14 gastrointestinal nematode taxa overall at either genus (29%) or species (71%) level. These taxa were dominated by parasites classically found in cervids—e.g. Ostertagia leptospicularis, Spiculopteragia spp. Higher parasite species diversity was present in the Trois Fontaines population than in the Chizé population including the presence of species more typically seen in domestic livestock (Haemonchus contortus, Bunostomum sp., Cooperia punctata, Teladorsagia circumcincta). No differences in parasite species diversity or community composition were seen in the samples collected from three zones of differing habitat quality within the Chizé study area. Young roe deer hosted the highest diversity of gastrointestinal nematodes, with more pronounced effects of age apparent in Trois Fontaines. The effect of host age differed between gastrointestinal nematode species, e.g. there was little effect on O. leptospicularis but a large effect on Trichostrongylus spp. No effect of host sex was detected in either site. Conclusions The presence of some livestock parasite species in the Trois Fontaines roe deer population was unexpected given the isolation of this population away from grazing domestic livestock since decades. Overall, our results illustrate the influence of host traits and the local environment on roe deer nemabiome and demonstrate the power of the nemabiome metabarcoding approach to elucidate the composition of gastrointestinal nematode communities in wildlife. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-05087-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Beaumelle
- Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR 5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université de Lyon, 69100, Villeurbanne, France. .,Université Grenoble Alpes, Université Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LECA, 38000, Grenoble, France.
| | - Elizabeth M Redman
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Host-Parasites Interactions Program, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Jill de Rijke
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Host-Parasites Interactions Program, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Janneke Wit
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Host-Parasites Interactions Program, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Slimania Benabed
- Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR 5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université de Lyon, 69100, Villeurbanne, France.,VetAgro Sup, Campus Vétérinaire de Lyon, Université de Lyon, 69280, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - François Debias
- Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR 5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université de Lyon, 69100, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Jeanne Duhayer
- Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR 5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université de Lyon, 69100, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Sylvia Pardonnet
- Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR 5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université de Lyon, 69100, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Marie-Thérèse Poirel
- Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR 5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université de Lyon, 69100, Villeurbanne, France.,VetAgro Sup, Campus Vétérinaire de Lyon, Université de Lyon, 69280, Marcy l'Etoile, France
| | - Gilles Capron
- Office Français de la Biodiversité, 75008, Paris, France
| | | | - Benjamin Rey
- Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR 5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université de Lyon, 69100, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Glenn Yannic
- Université Grenoble Alpes, Université Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LECA, 38000, Grenoble, France
| | - John S Gilleard
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, Host-Parasites Interactions Program, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Gilles Bourgoin
- Université Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR 5558, Laboratoire de Biométrie et Biologie Evolutive, Université de Lyon, 69100, Villeurbanne, France.,VetAgro Sup, Campus Vétérinaire de Lyon, Université de Lyon, 69280, Marcy l'Etoile, France
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10
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Romeo C, Piscitelli AP, Santicchia F, Martinoli A, Ferrari N, Wauters LA. Invading parasites: spillover of an alien nematode reduces survival in a native species. Biol Invasions 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10530-021-02611-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
AbstractIt is widely assumed that spillover of alien parasites to native host species severely impacts naïve populations, ultimately conferring a competitive advantage to invading hosts that introduced them. Despite such host-switching events occurring in biological invasions, studies demonstrating the impact of alien macroparasites on native animal hosts are surprisingly few. In Europe, native red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) are replaced by introduced North American grey squirrels (S. carolinensis) mainly through resource competition, and, only in the United Kingdom and Ireland, by competition mediated by a viral disease. In Italy such disease is absent, but spillover of an introduced North American nematode (Strongyloides robustus) from grey to red squirrels is known to occur. Here, we used long-term (9 years) capture-mark-recapture and parasitological data of red squirrels in areas co-inhabited by grey squirrels in Northern Italy to investigate the impact of this alien helminth on naïve native squirrels’ body mass, local survival, and reproduction of females. We found no negative effect of the alien parasite on body mass or reproductive success, but intensity of infection by S. robustus reduced survival of both male and female squirrels. Significantly, survival of squirrels co-infected by their native nematode, Trypanoxyuris sciuri, was less affected by S. robustus, suggesting a protective effect of the native helminth against the new infection. Hence, we demonstrate that alien S. robustus spillover adds to the detrimental effects of resource competition and stress induced by grey squirrels, further reducing the fitness of the native species in the presence of the invasive competitor.
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11
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Multivariate Abundance Analysis of Multi-Host/Multi-Parasite Lungworms in a Sympatric Wild Ruminant Population. DIVERSITY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/d13060227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In the analysis of a multi-host/multi-parasite system and its associated risk factors, it is particularly interesting to understand the natural dynamics among pathogens, their hosts, and the environment in wildlife populations. This analysis is particularly feasible in a scenario where multiple overlapping host populations are present in high densities, along with a complex community of parasites. We aimed to describe and analyze the naturally occurring lungworm polyparasitism in a wild ruminant community in Southeast Spain. The respiratory tracts of 250 specimens belonging to four different species (red deer, mouflon, Iberian ibex, and fallow deer) were studied. Almost half (48.0%) of the animals were infected with bronchopulmonary nematodes. Seven different nematodes were identified of which two genera (Protostrongylus spp. and Dictyocaulus spp.) and three additional species (Cystocaulus ocreatus, Muellerius capillaris, and Neostrongylus linearis) were recorded in at least two ruminants, with the mouflon as the commonest host. Our study shows a significant effect of host species and sampling area, plus a marginal effect of age, on parasite multivariate abundance at the host population level. Mouflon and adults of all hosts appear to carry the highest parasite load on average. From a spatial perspective, the highest parasite abundance was detected at the central part of the park.
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12
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Habig B, Chowdhury S, Monfort SL, Brown JL, Swedell L, Foerster S. Predictors of helminth parasite infection in female chacma baboons ( Papio ursinus). Int J Parasitol Parasites Wildl 2021; 14:308-320. [PMID: 33898232 PMCID: PMC8056146 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2021.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Helminth parasite infection can impose major consequences on host fitness. Several factors, including individual characteristics of hosts, environmental conditions, and patterns of coinfection, are thought to drive variation in parasite risk. Here, we report on four key drivers of parasite infection-phase of reproduction, steroid hormone profiles, rainfall, and patterns of coinfection-in a population of wild female chacma baboons (Papio ursinus) in South Africa. We collected data on reproductive state and hormone profiles over a 3-year span, and quantified helminth parasite burdens in 2955 fecal samples from 24 female baboons. On a host level, we found that baboons are sensitive to parasite infection during the costliest phases of the reproductive cycle: pregnant females harbored higher intensities of Protospirura eggs than cycling and lactating females; lactating and cycling females had a higher probability of Oesophagostomum infection than pregnant females; and cycling females exhibited lower Trichuris egg counts than pregnant and lactating females. Steroid hormones were associated with both immunoenhancing and immunosuppressive properties: females with high glucocorticoid concentrations exhibited high intensities of Trichuris eggs but were at low risk of Oesophagostomum infection; females with high estrogen and progestagen concentrations exhibited high helminth parasite richness; and females with high progestagen concentrations were at high risk of Oesophagostomum infection but exhibited low Protospirura egg counts. We observed an interaction between host reproductive state and progestagen concentrations in infection intensity of Protospirura: pregnant females exhibited higher intensities and non-pregnant females exhibited lower intensities of Protospirura eggs with increasing progestagen concentrations. At a population level, rainfall patterns were dominant drivers of parasite risk. Lastly, helminth parasites exhibited positive covariance, suggesting that infection probability increases if a host already harbors one or more parasite taxa. Together, our results provide a holistic perspective of factors that shape variation in parasite risk in a wild population of animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bobby Habig
- Department of Biology, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd. Flushing, NY, 11367, USA
| | - Shahrina Chowdhury
- Department of Anthropology, Brooklyn College, City University of New York, 2900 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 11210, USA
- Anthropology Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York NY, 10016, USA
- New York Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology, Anthropology Program, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Steven L. Monfort
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA, 22630, USA
| | - Janine L. Brown
- Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, 1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, VA, 22630, USA
| | - Larissa Swedell
- Anthropology Program, Graduate Center, City University of New York, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York NY, 10016, USA
- New York Consortium in Evolutionary Primatology, Anthropology Program, 365 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY, 10016, USA
- Department of Anthropology, Queens College, City University of New York, 65-30 Kissena Blvd. Flushing, NY, 11367, USA
- Department of Archaeology, University of Cape Town, Private Bag X3, Rondebosch, 7701, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Steffen Foerster
- Department of Evolutionary Anthropology, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA
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13
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Leivesley JA, Rollinson N. Maternal provisioning and fluctuating thermal regimes enhance immune response in a reptile with temperature-dependent sex determination. J Exp Biol 2021; 224:jeb.237016. [PMID: 33536300 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.237016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The Charnov-Bull model of differential fitness is often used to explain the evolution and maintenance of temperature-dependent sex determination (TSD). Most tests of the model focus on morphological proxies of fitness, such as size traits, whereas early life physiological traits that are closely related to lifetime fitness might provide a framework for generalizing the Charnov-Bull model across taxa. One such trait is the strength of the early-life immune response, which is strongly linked to early-life survival and fitness. Here, we manipulated temperature, variance in temperature, and sex to test the Charnov-Bull model using a physiological trait, immune system strength, in the snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina). We found no evidence of sex-specific differences in bactericidal capacity of hatchling blood, and no evidence that mean temperature influences bactericidal capacity. However, we did find that fluctuating incubation temperature (i.e. a more naturalized incubation regime) is associated with a greater bactericidal capacity compared with constant temperature incubation. We also found that egg mass, a proxy for maternal provisioning, is positively associated with bactericidal capacity. Our findings suggest that the evolution of temperature-dependent sex determination in reptiles is unrelated to our measure of early-life innate immunity. Our study also underlines how immune response is condition dependent in early life, and questions the biological relevance of constant temperature incubation in experimental studies on ectotherm development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Alice Leivesley
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada, M5S 3B2
| | - Njal Rollinson
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada, M5S 3B2.,School of the Environment, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada, M5S 3E8
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14
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Rushworth CA, Brandvain Y, Mitchell‐Olds T. Identifying the fitness consequences of sex in complex natural environments. Evol Lett 2020; 4:516-529. [PMID: 33312687 PMCID: PMC7719549 DOI: 10.1002/evl3.194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In the natural world, sex prevails, despite its costs. Although much effort has been dedicated to identifying the intrinsic costs of sex (e.g., the cost of males), few studies have identified the ecological fitness consequences of sex. Furthermore, correlated biological traits that differ between sexuals and asexuals may alter these costs, or even render the typical costs of sex irrelevant. We conducted a large-scale, multisite, reciprocal transplant using multiple sexual and asexual genotypes of a native North American wildflower to show that sexual genotypes have reduced lifetime fitness, despite lower herbivory. We separated the effects of sex from those of hybridity, finding that overwinter survival is elevated in asexuals regardless of hybridity, but herbivores target hybrid asexuals more than nonhybrid asexual or sexual genotypes. Survival is lowest in homozygous sexual lineages, implicating inbreeding depression as a cost of sex. Our results show that the consequences of sex are shaped not just by sex itself, but by complex natural environments, correlated traits, and the identity and availability of mates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine A. Rushworth
- Department of Evolution and EcologyUniversity of California, DavisDavisCalifornia95616
- University and Jepson HerbariaUniversity of California, BerkeleyBerkeleyCalifornia94720
- Department of Plant and Microbial BiologyUniversity of MinnesotaSt. PaulMinnesota55108
- Department of BiologyDuke UniversityDurhamNorth Carolina27708
| | - Yaniv Brandvain
- Department of Plant and Microbial BiologyUniversity of MinnesotaSt. PaulMinnesota55108
| | - Tom Mitchell‐Olds
- Department of BiologyDuke UniversityDurhamNorth Carolina27708
- Center for Genomic and Computational BiologyDuke UniversityDurhamNorth Carolina27708
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15
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Judson JM, Reding DM, Bronikowski AM. Immunosenescence and its influence on reproduction in a long-lived vertebrate. J Exp Biol 2020; 223:jeb223057. [PMID: 32376708 PMCID: PMC7328165 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.223057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Immunosenescence is a well-known phenomenon in mammal systems, but its relevance in other long-lived vertebrates is less understood. Further, the influence of age and reproductive effort on immune function in long-lived species can be challenging to assess, as long-term data are scarce and it is often difficult to sample the oldest age classes. We used the painted turtle (Chrysemys picta) to test hypotheses of immunosenescence and a trade-off between reproductive output and immune function in a population of a long-lived vertebrate that has been monitored for over 30 years. These long-term data were utilized to employ a unique approach of aging turtles with mark-recapture data and population-specific growth modeling to obtain more accurate estimates of age. We analyzed natural antibodies, lysis ability and bactericidal competence in 126 individuals from 1 to 33 years of age captured during May and June 2011. Older turtles exhibited greater natural antibody levels than young individuals. Young females with large clutches exhibited greater lysis ability, while older females with large clutches had decreased lysis ability, suggesting a trade-off between reproductive output and immune function conditional upon age. However, bactericidal competence increased later in the nesting season for older females. Our study rejects the hypothesis of immunosenescence in a long-lived turtle, despite evidence of actuarial and reproductive senescence in this population. Additionally, we detected mixed evidence for a trade-off between reproduction and immune health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M Judson
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University, 251 Bessey Hall, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Dawn M Reding
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University, 251 Bessey Hall, Ames, IA 50011, USA
| | - Anne M Bronikowski
- Department of Ecology, Evolution, and Organismal Biology, Iowa State University, 251 Bessey Hall, Ames, IA 50011, USA
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16
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Hayward AD, Pilkington JG, Wilson K, McNeilly TN, Watt KA. Reproductive effort influences intra‐seasonal variation in parasite‐specific antibody responses in wild Soay sheep. Funct Ecol 2019. [DOI: 10.1111/1365-2435.13330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Adam D. Hayward
- Moredun Research Institute Penicuik UK
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences University of Stirling Stirling UK
| | | | - Kenneth Wilson
- Lancaster Environment Centre Lancaster University Lancaster UK
| | | | - Kathryn A. Watt
- Institute of Evolutionary Biology Ashworth Laboratories Edinburgh UK
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