Abstract
Vector mosquitoes rely on olfactory cues to direct host-seeking and oviposition behaviors that are directly involved in their ability to transmit pathogens. An ongoing analysis of the olfactory system of Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus have shown that these behaviors are driven by a small number of transmission channels, and this project initially aims at finalizing this analysis. This will be accomplished by systematic GC-SSR analysis of the predefined olfactory system of these species using human emanation and oviposition site extracts with the aim to identify bioactive cues. Using a quantitative molecular approach the next step will be to identify the chemosensory receptors that bind these cues and translates the olfactory signals sent to the central nervous system, which ultimately regulates these behaviors. This will be done using real time PCR analysis, and the expected small number of receptors will then be functionally characterized using a heterologous expression system, the Sf9 insect cell line. As these receptors are believed to be responsible for key vector behaviors they are suitable control product targets. To verify that the transmission channels, governed by the receptors expressed in these, may be used in this regard I propose to selectively target a pair of these receptors in each species using RNAi mediated gene silencing. The effect of this treatment will be assessed using a combination of molecular, electrophysiological and behavioral techniques.
Sweden