Short-sighted evolution and the virulence of pathogenic microorganisms.

doi:10.1016/0966-842x(94)90538-x

Back to search

Article

Short-sighted evolution and the virulence of pathogenic microorganisms.

Trends in microbiology - 1 Mar 1994

Levin B R, Bull J J

Abstract excerpt

For some microorganisms, virulence may be an inadvertent consequence of mutation and selection in the parasite population, occurring within a host during the course of an infection. This type of virulence is short-sighted, in that it engenders no advantage to the pathogen beyond the afflicted hos...

Topics

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
Bacteria
Biological Evolution
HIV
Humans
Meningitis, Bacterial
Mutation
Poliomyelitis
Poliovirus
Virulence

Community interpretation

Discuss the evidence

Ask a question, add context or challenge an interpretation. Community activity is separate from scientific evidence strength.

discussions

replies

Citations encouraged

Claims remain attributable.

No discussion yet

Be the first to add a careful, cited interpretation.