Role of host-associated factors in virus pathogenesis and immune responses to viral vaccines

Host-associated factors are the intrinsic characteristics of an individual that influence their susceptibility to disease and the outcome of viral infections. Host genetic diversity, age, sex and gender, microbiome composition, comorbidities (including chronic diseases and co-infections), prior infection and pre-existing immunity are some of the many host factors known to play crucial roles in determining the outcomes of viral infection. Additionally, these host-associated factors also contribute to the development of innate and adaptive immunity, the protective efficacy, and adverse events of viral vaccination.Understanding the underlying mechanisms of how host-associated factors contribute to outcomes of viral infection is critical for predicting disease outcomes, developing targeted therapeutic interventions, improving viral vaccine design, and for precision medicine. This Research Topic aims to bring together reviews and original research articles exploring the role of diverse host factors in virus pathogenesis and vaccine-induced immunity. Studies in humans, animals, animal models, and in vitro (including organoids), investigating how the specific host factor drives virus-pathogen interactions, contributing to disease severity or differential outcomes will be of interest in this research topic. It will also cover the novel therapeutic or management approaches to protect high-risk groups and novel adjuvant or vaccine tactics to lower adverse outcomes and improve immunity and protection.We welcome manuscripts related to the following topics:• Host genetics, such as single-nucleotide polymorphisms, gene mutations, and genetic predispositions that affect virus pathogenesis or vaccine responses. • Gut or tissue-specific microbiome, microbial dysbiosis, and their role in immune modulation during virus infection and vaccination.• Sex/gender, pregnancy, and age-specific differences in disease susceptibility, immune responses, and underlying mechanisms. • Chronic diseases and comorbidities that alter the host’s immune system, metabolism, and overall health during virus infection and vaccination. • Interaction of two or more host factors in mediating virus pathogenesis and immunity to vaccines. Topic editors: Margarita Kam-Lem Lay, Adam Abdullahi, Giuseppe Andrea Sautto, Seiho Nagafuchi Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/75962/role-of-host-associated-factors-in-virus-pathogenesis-and-immune-responses-to-viral-vaccines