In an in vitro RNA replication system, an RNA spontaneously diversifies and continuously evolves through coevolution with parasitic entities.

The common ancestor of extant mammalian coronaviruses originated recently in a bat species and their diversification occurred via preferential host switches rather than through codiversification with mammals.

Malaria parasites avoid destruction by their host's immune response through systematic and coordinated expression switching between members of a network of variant antigen-encoding genes, a process that is mediated by a uniquely conserved gene called var2csa.

Horizontal transfer of a sequence-specific DNA-binding domain allows a virus to destroy its subviral parasite and overcome parasite-mediated restriction.

The ligand specificity and expression profile of the haptoglobin-haemoglobin receptor has diversified throughout the evolution of trypanosomes.

An integrated empirical paradigm tracing immune strategies, underlying mechanisms and infection outcomes across reservoir host-pathogen systems, their specific ecological contexts, life-history features, and coevolutionary dynamics can reveal the actual patterns and processes underlying spillover in the wild.

Mechanisms that enable wild mice to survive infection with strains of the Toxoplasma gondii parasite virulent enough to kill laboratory mice offer an explanation for how these parasites have been able to persist in the mouse population.

The first comprehensive analysis of antigenic switching in the malaria-causing parasite Plasmodium falciparum provides new insights into the process that prevents individuals from acquiring immunity to the disease.

Unique mechanisms of genetic exchange in the important protozoan pathogen Trypanosome cruzi were characterized in detail using genome analyses of hybrid clones at different time points, showing initial tetraploids followed by genome erosion.

Hybridization and introgression blur species boundaries and broaden genetic diversity available for adaptation; and widespread introgression underpins the evolution of races of the generalist pathogen Albugo candida that specialise on different host plant species.