Editorial: Epigenetics of infectious diseases
Smita Kulkarni, Thilona Arumugam, Anil A. Chuturgoon, Ping An, Veron Ramsuran
Abstract
Host genetics contribute to variations in the acquisition, disease manifestation, and outcomes of pathogenic infections across individuals. One of the factors influencing the variability in infection and pathogenesis is epigenetics. Epigenetic factors such as DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are instrumental in host-pathogen interactions. These factors regulate pathogen and host genes without altering their genetic sequences. For instance, viruses may modify host-specific histones to make the host genome more accessible for viral replication. In contrast, the host may silence the integrated viral genome through DNA methylation, inhibiting viral replication. Thus, the series of contributions gathered in this Research Topic explores intriguing epigenetic factors that influence host-pathogen interactions. This research will drive our understanding of the role of epigenetics in immunology, pathogenesis, and possible clinical intervention of infectious diseases.