Molluscan immunorecognition

Abstract

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