Host Molecules and Molecular Mechanisms in Insects and Crustaceans

Dear Colleagues,

The remarkable similarities between the host molecular mechanisms of insects and crustaceans play a crucial role in their interactions with symbionts (pathogens or mutualistic microorganisms) and their ability to overcome environmental challenges. Symbiotic associations play an important ecological and physiological role in insects and crustaceans. Their mutualistic relationship with the microbial community is involved in fundamental aspects of their behavior, development, metabolism and nutrition, protection, and immune response. On the other hand, parasitism is an important factor in population control and shapes host–parasite interactions through coevolution. The plethora of molecular mechanisms and molecules involved in these close and complex relationships, encompass their innate immune responses, cellular defense mechanisms, pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs), RNA interference (RNAi), and various adaptations that contribute to host-symbionts resilience and survival.

Gaining a deeper understanding of these molecular processes in insects and crustaceans holds immense value for multiple key areas of interest, one of which is disease control and management. Insects and crustaceans can transmit various diseases to humans, livestock, and crops. Investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying these host–pathogen interactions can aid in developing effective disease control strategies. By identifying the specific molecular targets involved in the infection process, researchers can develop therapeutics, vaccines, and insecticides to combat disease transmission. On the other hand, the study of host molecular mechanisms also illuminates the evolutionary processes that have shaped insects and crustaceans over millions of years. Comparing the molecular pathways present in different species helps elucidate the genetic and functional changes that have occurred during evolution, offering insights into the mechanisms driving adaptation and speciation. Moreover, the investigation of host molecular mechanisms can contribute to environmental monitoring and conservation. By studying how insects and crustaceans respond to environmental stressors such as pollution or climate change, researchers can assess their health and their adaptability to changing ecosystems. Of particular interest are the molecular markers involved in dramatic changes to the metaorganism, which refers to the host and all the complex, closely related symbiotic relationships that involve it.

In light of the significance of host molecular mechanisms for insects and crustaceans, we welcome the submission of articles to our upcoming Special Issue on this topic. Research in this area can encompass disease control and management, evolutionary insights, and environmental monitoring and conservation.

Dr. Tze Hann Ng
Dr. Maria Luigia Vommaro
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• insects
• crustaceans
• disease control and management
• evolutionary biology
• environmental monitoring and conservation