Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 12, 2026

05:59
Embryo Microinjection Techniques for Efficient Site-Specific Mutagenesis in Culex quinquefasciatus
Published on: May 24, 2020
6.5K
Pyrethroid resistance in Culex pipiens mosquitoes.
Jeffrey G Scott1, Melissa Hardstone Yoshimizu2, Shinji Kasai3
1Department of Entomology, Comstock Hall, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA.
Pesticide Biochemistry and Physiology
|May 20, 2015
Summary
Pyrethroid resistance in Culex pipiens mosquitoes is a global issue, driven by target site mutations and increased detoxification. These resistance mechanisms, including kdr and CYP9M10, can impose fitness costs on mosquitoes.
Area of Science:
- * Vector biology and entomology
- * Molecular toxicology and insecticide resistance
Background:
- * Culex pipiens mosquitoes are significant vectors of human diseases globally.
- * Pyrethroid insecticides are crucial for controlling these disease-carrying mosquitoes.
- * Understanding pyrethroid resistance in this complex is vital for effective vector control.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To review current knowledge on pyrethroid resistance in Culex pipiens.
- * To examine the levels, mechanisms, and fitness costs associated with this resistance.
- * To identify geographic variations and key resistance factors.
Main Methods:
- * Literature review of studies on pyrethroid resistance in Culex pipiens.
- * Analysis of reported resistance ratios, genetic mutations (Vssc, kdr), and gene expression (cytochrome P450s).
- * Evaluation of fitness costs associated with resistance mechanisms.
Main Results:
- * Pyrethroid resistance is widespread in Culex pipiens, with high resistance ratios observed in field populations.
- * Major resistance mechanisms include target-site insensitivity (Vssc mutations like L1014F/kdr) and enhanced detoxification (overexpression of P450s, notably CYP9M10).
- * Geographic heterogeneity in resistance levels and mechanisms exists, with specific mutations found in different regions.
Conclusions:
- * Pyrethroid resistance in Culex pipiens is a complex global challenge.
- * CYP9M10 overexpression and kdr mutations are key drivers of resistance, potentially with fitness trade-offs.
- * Further research is needed to address geographic variations and develop sustainable control strategies.

