International Journal of Molecular Zoology 2024, Vol.14, No.4, 233-243 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmz 233 Feature Review Open Access Mechanisms of Differential Infection in Wildlife: Factors Influencing Susceptibility and Resistance Jia Xuan , Xinghao Li, Hongbo Liang Institute of Life Science, Jiyang College of Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China Corresponding author: jia.xuan@jicat.org International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 2024, Vol.14, No.4 doi: 10.5376/ijmz.2024.14.0021 Received: 03 Jun., 2024 Accepted: 14 Jul., 2024 Published: 02 Aug., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Xuan et al., This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Xuan J., Li X.H., and Liang H.B., 2024, Mechanisms of differential infection in wildlife: factors influencing susceptibility and resistance, International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 14(4): 233-243 (doi: 10.5376/ijmz.2024.14.0021) Abstract Wildlife disease dynamics are influenced by a complex interplay of factors that determine differential infection and resistance among species. This study explores the genetic, environmental, behavioral, and microbiome-related mechanisms that influence susceptibility and resistance in wildlife. Through an analysis of genetic variation, environmental stressors, behavioral patterns, and microbiome diversity, this study identifies key factors contributing to differential infection rates. A detailed case study highlights how these factors converge in a specific wildlife species, offering insights into broader ecological and conservation implications. The findings underscore the importance of integrating susceptibility research into conservation strategies and suggest targeted approaches to enhance resistance in vulnerable species. This study aims to inform conservation policies and management practices, promoting a multidisciplinary approach to wildlife disease management and future research directions. Keywords Wildlife disease dynamics; Differential infection; Susceptibility factors; Conservation strategies; Pathogen resistance 1 Introduction Infectious diseases are increasingly recognized as significant drivers of population dynamics, conservation biology, and natural selection in wildlife populations. Pathogens can influence population size, distribution, growth rates, and migration patterns, often leading to the decline of small or endangered populations. The interaction between host genetics and disease susceptibility is a critical factor in understanding these dynamics. For instance, genetic variation in the prion protein gene (PRNP) has been linked to differential susceptibility to chronic wasting disease (CWD) in white-tailed deer, demonstrating how genetic differences can influence natural selection within wildlife populations (Robinson et al., 2012). Additionally, the movement of animals, whether through migration or other transient phases, plays a crucial role in the spread of diseases, further complicating the dynamics of wildlife diseases (Daversa et al., 2017). Understanding the mechanisms behind differential infection in wildlife is essential for several reasons. Firstly, it helps in predicting and managing disease outbreaks, which is crucial for conservation efforts and maintaining biodiversity (DeCandia et al., 2018). For example, the differential susceptibility of cattle breeds to tropical theileriosis highlights the importance of host-pathogen interactions in determining disease outcomes (Larcombe et al., 2019). Secondly, it provides insights into the evolutionary pressures exerted by pathogens on host populations, which can lead to significant changes in genetic diversity and population structure over time (Jiao and Fefferman, 2021). Moreover, understanding how anthropogenic factors, such as urbanization and agriculture, influence wildlife-pathogen dynamics can inform strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of human activities on wildlife health (Becker et al., 2015). This study aims to review and synthesize current knowledge on the factors influencing susceptibility and resistance to infectious diseases in wildlife. By examining genetic, behavioral, and ecological factors, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms driving differential infection; explores how genetic variation, host behavior, and environmental factors contribute to disease dynamics and the implications for wildlife conservation and management; additionally, highlights areas for future research to address gaps in our understanding and improve predictive models for wildlife disease management.
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