Native microbiota shape insect vector competence for human pathogens

Cell Host Microbe. 2011 Oct 20;10(4):307-10. doi: 10.1016/j.chom.2011.09.006.

Abstract

The resident microbiota of insect vectors can impede transmission of human pathogens. Recent studies have highlighted the capacity of endogenous bacteria to decrease viral and parasitic infections in mosquito and tsetse fly vectors by activating their immune responses or directly inhibiting pathogen development. These microbes may prove effective agents for manipulating the vector competence of malaria and other important human pathogens.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Communicable Diseases / transmission*
  • Culicidae / immunology
  • Culicidae / microbiology
  • Humans
  • Insect Vectors / immunology
  • Insect Vectors / microbiology*
  • Metagenome*
  • Tsetse Flies / immunology
  • Tsetse Flies / microbiology