Current immunity markers in insect ecological immunology: assumed trade-offs and methodological issues
Por:
Moreno-Garcia, M, Cordoba-Aguilar, A, Conde, R, Lanz-Mendoza, H
Publicada:
1 abr 2013
Resumen:
The field of ecological immunology currently relies on using a number of
immune effectors or markers. These markers are usually used to infer
ecological trade-offs (via conflicts in resource allocation), though
physiological nature of these markers remains elusive. Here, we review
markers frequently used in insect evolutionary ecology research: cuticle
darkening, haemocyte density, nodule/capsule formation, phagocytosis and
encapsulation/melanization via use of nylon filaments and beads,
phenoloxidase activity, nitric oxide production, lysozyme and
antimicrobial peptide production. We also provide physiologically based
information that may shed light on the probable trade-offs inferred when
these markers are used. In addition, we provide a number of
methodological suggestions to improve immune marker assessment.
Filiaciones:
Univ Nacl Autonoma Mexico, Dept Ecol Evolut, Inst Ecol, Coyoacan 04510, DF, Mexico
Inst Nacl Salud Publ, Ctr Invest Enfermedades Infecciosas, Cuernavaca 62100, Morelos, Mexico
|