Arthropod exosomes as bubbles with message(s) to transmit vector-borne diseases

Area of Science:

• Medical Entomology
• Molecular Biology
• Pathogen Transmission

Background:

• Ticks and mosquitoes are significant vectors transmitting arboviruses and other pathogens to humans.
• The molecular and cellular mechanisms of pathogen transmission at the vector-host interface are crucial for understanding disease spread.
• Small extracellular vesicles (EVs), particularly exosomes, are increasingly recognized for their role in intercellular communication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the emerging research on the role of tick and mosquito exosomes in arbovirus transmission.
• To elucidate the involvement of exosomes in the tripartite interactions between vectors, pathogens, and hosts.
• To highlight the potential of targeting exosome-mediated pathways for novel therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on arthropod exosomes and pathogen transmission.
• Analysis of molecular and cellular interactions at the vector-host interface.
• Synthesis of findings related to exosome biogenesis, release, and uptake in vector-pathogen systems.

Main Results:

• Tick and mosquito exosomes facilitate arbovirus transmission within arthropod cells.
• Exosomes mediate the transfer of pathogens and viral components from arthropods to mammalian hosts.
• These EVs play a critical role in the vector-pathogen-host tripartite interactions.

Conclusions:

• Arthropod exosomes are key players in the transmission cycle of arboviruses.
• Understanding exosome function in vectors offers insights into host-pathogen dynamics.
• Targeting exosome-mediated pathogen transmission presents a promising avenue for developing novel interventions against vector-borne diseases.