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Protocol for Plasmodium falciparum Infections in Mosquitoes and Infection Phenotype Determination
Published on: July 4, 2007
Plasmodium knowlesi invasion following spread by infected mosquitoes, macaques and humans
Laith Yakob1, Alun L Lloyd2, Rowland R Kao3
1Department of Disease Control,London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine,Keppel Street,London WC1E 7HT,UK.
Abstract:
Plasmodium knowlesi is increasingly recognized as a major cause of malaria in Southeast Asia. Anopheles leucosphyrous group mosquitoes transmit the parasite and natural hosts include long-tailed and pig-tailed macaques. Despite early laboratory experiments demonstrating successful passage of infection between humans, the true role that humans play in P. knowlesi epidemiology remains unclear. The threat posed by its introduction into immunologically naïve populations is unknown despite being a public health priority for this region. A two-host species mathematical model was constructed to analyse this threat. Global sensitivity analysis using Monte Carlo methods highlighted the biological processes of greatest influence to transmission. These included parameters known to be influential in classic mosquito-borne disease models (e.g. vector longevity); however, interesting ecological components that are specific to this system were also highlighted: while local vectors likely have intrinsic preferences for certain host species, how plastic these preferences are, and how this is shaped by local conditions, are key determinants of parasite transmission potential. Invasion analysis demonstrates that this behavioural plasticity can qualitatively impact the probability of an epidemic sparked by imported infection. Identifying key vector sub/species and studying their biting behaviours constitute important next steps before models can better assist in strategizing disease control.
Insights
Plasmodium knowlesi malaria transmission in Southeast Asia is influenced by macaque host preference plasticity in Anopheles mosquitoes. Understanding vector behavior is crucial for controlling this emerging public health threat.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Mathematical Biology
- Vector-borne Diseases
Background:
- Plasmodium knowlesi is a significant cause of malaria in Southeast Asia.
- Anopheles leucosphyrous mosquitoes transmit P. knowlesi, with macaques as natural hosts.
- The role of humans in P. knowlesi epidemiology and the risk to naive populations are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the threat of P. knowlesi introduction into immunologically naive populations.
- To identify key factors influencing P. knowlesi transmission dynamics.
- To inform public health strategies for malaria control in Southeast Asia.
Main Methods:
- A two-host species mathematical model was developed to simulate P. knowlesi transmission.
- Global sensitivity analysis using Monte Carlo methods was employed to assess parameter influence.
- Invasion analysis was used to evaluate the impact of vector behavioral plasticity.
Main Results:
- Vector longevity and ecological factors significantly influence P. knowlesi transmission.
- The plasticity of vector host preferences, shaped by local conditions, is a key determinant of transmission potential.
- Behavioral plasticity in vectors can alter the probability of epidemics from imported infections.
Conclusions:
- Understanding vector behavioral plasticity is critical for assessing P. knowlesi invasion risk.
- Identifying specific Anopheles vector species and their biting behaviors are essential next steps for disease control.
- Mathematical modeling can assist in strategizing P. knowlesi control efforts.
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