Why are some mosquito populations better at transmitting dengue virus than others?

Just as distinct human populations exposed to the same virus may differ in infection rates due to biological susceptibility, mosquito populations can vary in their susceptibility to dengue virus infection and their ability to transmit it.

This ability, known as vector competence, refers to the intrinsic capacity of a mosquito to acquire a pathogen, support its replication and dissemination, and ultimately transmit it to another host.

At the HostArVec Lab, we investigate variation in dengue virus vector competence among Aedes aegypti populations from communities with contrasting transmission risks. Our research aims to determine how variation in vector competence contributes to transmission risk and identify the biological and molecular mechanisms underlying these differences. Ultimately, our findings will advance our understanding of dengue transmission dynamics and inform the development of dengue-induced lethality systems.

Can we engineer mosquitoes to stop dengue virus transmission?

Imagine a security system that remains silent until it detects an intruder. Once the intruder enters, the alarm activates a protective response designed to stop the threat. What if we could engineer a similar system inside mosquitoes to prevent dengue virus replication?

At the HostArVec Lab, we aim to improve genetic systems designed to recognize dengue virus infection and activate a lethal response in the mosquito. These systems are intended to remain inactive in uninfected mosquitoes but become activated when dengue virus is detected, preventing infected mosquitoes from surviving long enough to transmit the virus to another person.

Our goal is to develop virus-triggered genetic lethality systems as a potential strategy to interrupt dengue transmission.

Can we predict dengue transmission risk more accurately by looking beyond mosquito infestation?

In South Florida, the risk of mosquito-borne diseases varies considerably among communities. Traditional mosquito surveillance relies largely on mosquito infestation levels, which do not necessarily reflect how frequently people are bitten.

We aim to measure human exposure to mosquito bites by integrating blood-based biomarkers, mosquito infestation data, community surveys, environmental conditions, and human mobility patterns.

Our goal is to develop more accurate, human-centered approaches to predicting arboviral transmission risk, helping identify high-risk communities and guide targeted mosquito control strategies.