Primers in parasites and vectors

Edited by: Prof Anthony Walker

Collection published: 21 October 2011

Parasites & Vectors are pleased to launch a new series entitled Primers on Parasites & Vectors. Our aim for these Primers is to 'fill a gap' by providing short, authoritative and accessible accounts that explore the basic and applied biology of selected parasites, intermediate hosts, vectors and vector-borne pathogens. This will be achieved by augmenting well-understood aspects of parasite or vector biology with recent, cutting-edge research findings.

To meet this aim, each Primer will be restricted in length (2,500 words maximum) and will follow a distinct format, as illustrated by the first Primer in the series, "Insights into the functional biology of schistosomes". Each Primer will include a poster that can be downloaded, enlarged and printed. The poster will sharply focus on fundamental aspects of the biology of the selected parasite, vector, or parasitic disease, whereas the remainder of the Primer will highlight research advances and topical areas for further research. Discussion of "three advances made in the last decade" and "three areas ripe for research", selected by the author, should provide for an eclectic commentary, providing considerable breadth, unlike that achieved by conventional mini-reviews.

We hope this series will educate, excite and inspire individuals, both researchers and students alike, and engage scientists with the fascinating biology of parasites and vectors more widely than would be otherwise achieved.

Collection published: 21 October 2011