Host prior exposure augments heterogeneity in gene expression in both host and pathogen during <i>in vivo</i> infection.

ABSTRACT: Variability in acquired protection, whether from prior pathogen exposure or vaccination, is increasingly recognized as a key determinant of host population-level variation in disease traits. It remains unclear whether this extends to the within-host physiological environment and what the consequences are for reinfecting pathogens. Here, we asked whether prior pathogen exposure of hosts induces gene expression heterogeneity in the host and/or pathogen during infection. We quantified gene expression in vivo following high-dose pathogen challenge of house finches (Haemorhous mexicanus) previously given controlled, varied exposure histories to a bacterial pathogen (Mycoplasma gallisepticum; MG). To measure gene expression heterogeneity, we collected transcriptomic data fro

SUBMITTER: Perez-Umphrey AA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12393550 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature