Microbial evolution and transitions along the parasite–mutualist continuum

Drew, Georgia C.; Stevens, Emily J.; King, Kayla C.

Abstract

Virtually all plants and animals, including humans, are home to symbiotic microorganisms. Symbiotic interactions can be neutral, harmful or have beneficial effects on the host organism. However, growing evidence suggests that microbial symbionts can evolve rapidly, resulting in drastic transitions along the parasite–mutualist continuum. In this Review, we integrate theoretical and empirical findings to discuss the mechanisms underpinning these evolutionary shifts, as well as the ecological drivers and why some host–microorganism interactions may be stuck at the end of the continuum. In addition to having biomedical consequences, understanding the dynamic life of microorganisms reveals how symbioses can shape an organism’s biology and the entire community, particularly in a changing world.

Citation

Drew, G. C., Stevens, E. J., & King, K. C. (2021). Microbial evolution and transitions along the parasite–mutualist continuum. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 19, 623-638. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41579-021-00550-7

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Mar 12, 2021
• Online Publication Date: Apr 19, 2021
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Deposit Date: Feb 2, 2024
• Journal: Nature Reviews Microbiology
• Print ISSN: 1740-1526
• Publisher: Nature Publishing Group
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 19
• Pages: 623-638
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41579-021-00550-7
• Publisher URL: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41579-021-00550-7