An ecological and conservation perspective on advances in the applied virology of zoonoses.

ABSTRACT: The aim of this manuscript is to describe how modern advances in our knowledge of viruses and viral evolution can be applied to the fields of disease ecology and conservation. We review recent progress in virology and provide examples of how it is informing both empirical research in field ecology and applied conservation. We include a discussion of needed breakthroughs and ways to bridge communication gaps between the field and the lab. In an effort to foster this interdisciplinary effort, we have also included a table that lists the definitions of key terms. The importance of understanding the dynamics of zoonotic pathogens in their reservoir hosts is emphasized as a tool to both assess risk factors for spillover and to test hypotheses related to treatment and/or intervention strategies.

SUBMITTER: Vandegrift KJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3185704 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature