Editorial: Unconventional animal models in infectious disease research, volume II

Abstract

Infectious diseases remain a serious health threat globally, an actuality that necessitates ongoing research in this field. Among different research modalities, the use of animal models to unravel host-pathogen interactions that contribute to infectious diseases pathogenesis is on the rise. By means of simple manipulation, these model organisms could be used to study host and microbial factors contributing to disease progression, host defensive strategies, and mechanisms of pathogenic dissemination. Recent advancements in the genetics discipline has further enhanced the utilization of both conventional and unconventional animal models in research. In this launched Research Topic, we provide valuable insight on the particular use of several less-common model organisms in infectious disease research.