Answer:
Abstract
- A host can evolve two types of defence mechanisms to increase its fitness when challenged with a pathogen – resistance and tolerance.
- Immunology is a well-defined field in which we dissect the mechanisms behind resistance to infection, but we tend to look at the ability to tolerate infections in a less methodical manner.
- In this Opinion article, we present the argument that animals have a specific suite of tolerance mechanisms (distinct from their resistance mechanisms), and highlight evidence for these defensive measures and discuss their potential clinical impact.
- It is important to distinguish between these two defence mechanisms because they have different pathological and epidemiological effects.
- Increased understanding of these defences could lead to more efficient treatments for infectious diseases and a better description of host–parasite interactions.
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