Utilizing microbe – mosquito interactions in the control of mosquito populations

Authors: Ramirez, Jose

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/11/2021
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: Mosquitoes live in an environment in constant interaction with other microbes. Some mosquito-microbe associations allows the mosquito to transmit human pathogens while other associations help the mosquito fight infections. Knowledge on such mosquito-microbe associations can be utilized to effectively control mosquito populations and the pathogens they transmit. This seminar presentation will discuss our efforts in developing novel methods of mosquito control through the use of insect-specific microbial pathogens. In addition, the seminar will describe the different levels of effectiveness when targeting different mosquito species and the effect other microbes have on the outcome of infection. This talk will serve as an opportunity to discuss potential areas of collaboration between the two institutions.

Technical Abstract: Microbe-mosquito interactions range from pathogenic to mutualistic and are hallmarks of the mosquito ability to transmit human pathogens. Knowledge of such intricate molecular interactions can provide critical insights into mosquito biology and are important pillars in mosquito control approaches. This presentation will discuss the range of mosquito-microbe interactions that occur in nature and our current efforts using microorganisms to control mosquitoes and the pathogens they transmit. Furthermore, this talk will cover the mechanism of fungal killing, mosquito susceptibility and the interactions that occur with the mosquito host. In addition, this talk will serve as an opportunity to discuss potential areas of collaboration between the two institutions.