2026-10-06T13:31:44Z https://api.figshare.com/v2/oai

oai:figshare.com:article/32805470 2026-10-01T16:15:51Z portal_1172 item_type_8 month_year_10_2026

From taxa to transcripts: investigating the snail holobiont in the context of helminth infection Peter McCann (17837844) PUREID: 674939005 Biomphalaria glabrata microbiome schistosoma next generation sequencing Helminth parasites have complex life cycles that often require intermediate invertebrate hosts, such as freshwater snails. While much is known about the immunology and pathology of helminth infections, the role of the host-associated microbiome in these interactions remains underexplored. This thesis investigates the dynamic interplay between schistosome parasites, their snail hosts, and the host snail microbiota, with a focus on Biomphalaria glabrata as the intermediate host of Schistosoma mansoni. Drawing from recent studies and experimental insights, this work examines how helminth infection alters snail microbiome composition and function, and conversely, how the snail microbiome may influence parasite success.<br><br>Chapters explore the ecological and evolutionary importance of parasitic life cycles, the immune responses of snails to schistosome infection, and the snail microbiota’s potential role in either resisting or facilitating parasite establishment. Multi-omic methods, including metagenomics, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, are assessed as tools for dissecting host–microbiome–parasite interactions at a systems level. Evidence suggests that schistosome infection drives microbial dysbiosis in snails, which may reflect or influence intermediate host physiology and immune activation. Additionally, hypotheses are proposed regarding parasite-driven microbiome manipulation and microbiota-mediated resistance.<br><br>By integrating ecological, immunological, and molecular perspectives, this thesis provides a framework for understanding the snail holobiont during helminth infection. These insights hold potential for novel strategies in schistosomiasis control, including snail microbiome-based interventions targeting the intermediate host. <br><br><i>Thesis is embargoed until 31 July 2027.</i><br> 2026-10-01T16:15:51Z Text Thesis 10.17034/32805470.v1 https://figshare.com/articles/thesis/From_taxa_to_transcripts_investigating_the_snail_holobiont_in_the_context_of_helminth_infection/32805470 All Rights Reserved Open Access after 2027-07-31