Molluscan immunorecognition

Abstract

The immune system in molluscs, as well as in other invertebrates, is endowed with an innate immuneresponse which, however, shows in its recognition processes both molecular mechanisms andeffectors similar to those employed by vertebrates in eliminating pathogens and parasites.Furthermore, as in vertebrates, invertebrates also present a profound correlation between immuneand neuroendocrine responses. In this review, the players in the immune and neuroendocrine systemshave been examined, with particular references to gastropods and bivalves.

Keywords

• Molluscs
• immune and neuroendocrine responses