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Molecular survey of knockdown resistance to pyrethroids in human scabies mites
V Andriantsoanirina1, A Izri, F Botterel
1Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Hôpital Avicenne, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Paris 13, Bobigny, France.
Abstract:
There are growing concerns about the emergence of resistance of Sarcoptes scabiei to permethrin and other pyrethroid derivatives. Sarcoptes scabiei mites collected from 40 patients visiting two hospitals near Paris, France, were genotypically characterized considering two parts of their voltage-sensitive sodium channel gene. No nucleotide polymorphism resulting in a codon change at codon 733 or other positions associated with knockdown resistance in other arthropods has been identified. These data may establish a reference line for future surveys of the susceptibility of S. scabiei in the area.
Insights
Concerns about scabies mite resistance to permethrin are rising. Genetic analysis of Sarcoptes scabiei mites in France found no mutations linked to pyrethroid resistance, establishing a baseline for future susceptibility studies.
Area of Science:
- Medical Entomology
- Molecular Biology
- Parasitology
Background:
- Growing concerns exist regarding permethrin resistance in Sarcoptes scabiei, the human scabies mite.
- Pyrethroids are common treatments, but resistance could compromise public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic basis of potential permethrin resistance in Sarcoptes scabiei mites.
- To establish a genotypic baseline for Sarcoptes scabiei susceptibility in the Paris area.
Main Methods:
- Genotypic characterization of Sarcoptes scabiei mites from 40 patients near Paris.
- Analysis focused on specific regions of the voltage-sensitive sodium channel gene.
Main Results:
- No nucleotide polymorphisms were identified that would result in a codon change at position 733.
- No mutations associated with knockdown resistance, seen in other arthropods, were found.
Conclusions:
- Current Sarcoptes scabiei populations in the studied area do not exhibit known genetic markers for pyrethroid resistance.
- These findings provide a crucial reference for future monitoring of scabies mite susceptibility.

