The immune response of cephalopods from head to foot

AbstractCephalopods are a diverse group of marine molluscs that have proven their worth in a vast array of ways, ranging from their importance within ecological settings and increasing commercial value, to their recent use as model organisms in biological research. However, despite their acknowledged importance, our understanding of basic cephalopod biology does not equate their ecological, societal, and scientific significance. Among these undeveloped research areas, cephalopod immunology stands out because it encompasses a wide variety of scientific fields including many within the biological and chemical sciences, and because of its potential biomedical and commercial relevance. This review aims to address the current knowledge on the topic of cephalopod immunity, focusing on components and functions already established as part of the animals' internal defense mechanisms, as well as identifying gaps that would benefit from future research. More specifically, the present review details both cellular and humoral defenses, and organizes them into sensor, signaling, and effector components. Molluscan, and particularly cephalopod immunology has lagged behind many other areas of study, but thanks to the efforts of many dedicated researchers and the assistance of modern technology, this gap is steadily decreasing. A better understanding of cephalopod immunity will have a positive impact on the health and survival of one of the most intriguing and unique animal groups on the planet, and will certainly influence many other areas of human interest such as ecology, evolution, physiology, symbiosis, and aquaculture