Many genes involved in Drosophila melanogaster innate immune processes have been identified, but whether naturally occurring polymorphism in these genes leads to variation in immune competence among wild flies has not been tested. We report here substantial variability among wild-derived D. melanogaster in the ability to suppress infection by a Gram-negative entomopathogen, Serratia marcescens....

Condition is a nearly ubiquitous term in the behavioural, physiological and evolutionary ecology literature; however, existing definitions are incomplete or ambiguous. This poor conceptualization has led to confusion regarding what is being signalled by condition-dependent traits and how to interpret links between ornamentation and individual characteristics such as nutrient reserves, oxidative...

Social status can influence an animal's immune and reproductive functions, eventually leading to alterations in immunocompetence and reproductive success. Here, we report that rank assessed in a food competition test, considered as an index of social status, has significant influences on humoral immune functions in male Brandt's voles (Lasiopodomys brandtii) living in a group. Our data reveal a...

Over the past 20 years, researchers have emphasized condition-dependency as a core feature of many sexually selected ornaments. This empirical focus has been motivated by the assumption that condition-dependent ornaments should function as honest indicators of other fitness-related traits. However, evidence remains mixed regarding whether condition-dependent ornaments are consistently correlate...

A new method for the isolation of specific immunocompetent lymphocytes has been described in which lymphocyte populations are exposed to fluoresceinated antigens (FLAGs) in vivo or in vitro, and the FLAG-binding cells retained on antifluorescein affinity columns. Specific cells are then eluted with an unrelated FL-labeled protein and shown to be fully immunocompetent. This methodology has been ...

J. Anim. Sci. Vol. 88, E-Suppl. 2/J. Dairy Sci. Vol. 93, E-Suppl. 1/Poult. Sci. Vol. 89, E-Suppl. 1 390 Effect of feeding polyphenols from pomegranate extract on health, growth, nutrient digestion, and immunocompetence of calves. M. C. Perdomo*1, R. A. Oliveira1, C. D. Narciso1, R. S. Bisinotto1, M. A. Ballou2, M. Dreher3, and J. E. P. Santos1, 1University of Florida, Gainesville, 2Texas Tech U...

The human immune response to bacterial pathogens is a remarkably complex process, involving many different cell types, chemical signals, and extensive lines of communication. Mathematical models of this system have become increasingly high-dimensional and complicated, as researchers seek to capture many of the major dynamics. In this paper, we argue that, in some important instances, preference...