Dissecting vectorial capacity for mosquito-borne viruses.

Area of Science:

• Vector-borne disease ecology
• Arthropod-borne viral diseases
• Insect immunology

Background:

• Mosquitoes transmit numerous human pathogens.
• Vector competence is influenced by complex interactions.
• Previous understanding of barriers to infection and transmission is evolving.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the intricate relationship between mosquitoes and transmitted viruses.
• To identify factors beyond traditional barriers influencing vector competence.
• To understand the 'arms race' dynamics between vectors and viruses.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of mosquito immune and transcriptional responses post-blood meal.
• Investigation of mosquito microbiota roles.
• Examination of genetic interplay between mosquito and virus.
• Assessment of environmental factors like temperature.

Main Results:

• Mosquitoes mount immune and transcriptional responses to infection.
• Mosquito microbiota and genetics significantly impact vector competence.
• Viral and vector genotypes interact dynamically.
• Temperature is a key external influence on transmission.

Conclusions:

• Vector competence is determined by a combination of genetic, microbial, and environmental factors.
• Mosquito-virus interactions are complex and dynamic, resembling an 'arms race'.
• Factors influencing vector competence also affect mosquito longevity, behavior, and reproduction, impacting disease spread.