Host–Pathogen Interfaces in Veterinary and Zoonotic Infection: Comparative Models and Mechanisms

Veterinary and zoonotic infectious diseases are fundamentally driven by dynamic interactions between animal hosts and their pathogenic microbes. Advances in molecular and cellular microbiology have clarified how pathogens invade and persist within animals, informing our understanding of cross-species transmission and zoonotic risk. However, gaps persist regarding which aspects of host–pathogen interactions are conserved versus species-specific, and how these affect disease susceptibility and immune response. Though progress has been made on immune evasion and host manipulation mechanisms, most research is confined to select host–pathogen systems. There is an ongoing need for comparative studies that integrate mechanistic discoveries across different animals and underscore their relevance to zoonotic disease.This Research Topic aims to deepen the mechanistic understanding of host–pathogen interactions underpinning veterinary and zoonotic infections. Core objectives are to reveal both shared and unique mechanisms by which pathogens invade and modulate animal hosts, clarify key host determinants, and relate these findings to zoonotic potential. By promoting research using comparative and innovative models, this topic seeks to identify molecular targets and pathways relevant to diagnostics and interventions for animals and humans alike.This Research Topic is limited to studies focused on molecular and cellular interfaces between animal hosts and pathogens, emphasizing comparative and mechanistic insights connected to zoonotic emergence. Broader epidemiological or ecological perspectives are included only when tied directly to interface mechanisms. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to:- Molecular mechanisms of adhesion, entry, and dissemination- Comparative host immune responses and signaling pathways- Pathogen evasion and persistence strategies- Host and pathogen factors critical to infection outcome- Methodological advances for probing host–pathogen dynamics- Manuscripts linking interface mechanisms to zoonotic risk- Integrated omics, imaging, and modeling approachesSubmissions may include Original Research, Systematic Review, Methods, Review, Mini Review, Brief Research Report, Perspective, General Commentary, and Opinion articles that deliver detailed insights into infections in animals and their impact on human health. Topic editors: Greg Brennan, Ashutosh Verma, Ana Stoian Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/79672/host-pathogen-interfaces-in-veterinary-and-zoonotic-infection-comparative-models-and-mechanisms