Integration of shared-pathogen networks and machine learning reveals the key aspects of zoonoses and predicts mammalian reservoirs.



Wardeh, Maya ORCID: 0000-0002-2316-5460, Sharkey, Kieran J ORCID: 0000-0002-7210-9246 and Baylis, Matthew ORCID: 0000-0003-0335-187X
(2020) Integration of shared-pathogen networks and machine learning reveals the key aspects of zoonoses and predicts mammalian reservoirs. Proceedings. Biological sciences, 287 (1920). 20192882-.

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Abstract

Diseases that spread to humans from animals, zoonoses, pose major threats to human health. Identifying animal reservoirs of zoonoses and predicting future outbreaks are increasingly important to human health and well-being and economic stability, particularly where research and resources are limited. Here, we integrate complex networks and machine learning approaches to develop a new approach to identifying reservoirs. An exhaustive dataset of mammal-pathogen interactions was transformed into networks where hosts are linked via their shared pathogens. We present a methodology for identifying important and influential hosts in these networks. Ensemble models linking network characteristics with phylogeny and life-history traits are then employed to predict those key hosts and quantify the roles they undertake in pathogen transmission. Our models reveal drivers explaining host importance and demonstrate how these drivers vary by pathogen taxa. Host importance is further integrated into ensemble models to predict reservoirs of zoonoses of various pathogen taxa and quantify the extent of pathogen sharing between humans and mammals. We establish predictors of reservoirs of zoonoses, showcasing host influence to be a key factor in determining these reservoirs. Finally, we provide new insight into the determinants of zoonosis-sharing, and contrast these determinants across major pathogen taxa.

Item Type: Article
Uncontrolled Keywords: cross-species transmission, zoonotic disease risk, machine learning, one health, big data, pathogen spillover
Depositing User: Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited: 17 Feb 2020 09:51
Last Modified: 19 Jan 2023 00:03
DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2019.2882
Open Access URL: https://royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsp...
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URI: https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/3074855