Immune interactions between mosquitoes and microbes during midgut colonization
Julia A. Cai, George K. Christophides
Abstract
Mosquitoes encounter diverse microbes during their lifetime, including symbiotic bacteria, shaping their midgut ecosystem. The organization of the midgut supports microbiota persistence while defending against potential pathogens. The influx of nutrients during blood feeding triggers bacterial proliferation, challenging host homeostasis. Immune responses, aimed at controlling bacterial overgrowth, impact blood-borne pathogens such as malaria parasites. However, parasites deploy evasion strategies against mosquito immunity. Leveraging these mechanisms could help engineer malaria-resistant mosquitoes, offering a transformative tool for malaria elimination.
Topics & Concepts
BiologyMalariaMidgutImmune systemImmunityHost (biology)Evasion (ethics)AnophelesBacteriaImmunologyEcologyMicrobiologyLarvaGeneticsInsect symbiosis and bacterial influencesMosquito-borne diseases and controlInvertebrate Immune Response Mechanisms