Research

13 pages, 2037 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Viromes of Mosquitoes from the Natural Landscapes of Western Siberia

by Vladimir A. Ternovoi, Alexander N. Shvalov, Mikhail Yu. Kartashov, Eugenia P. Ponomareva, Natalia L. Tupota, Yuri A. Khoroshavin, Roman B. Bayandin, Anastasia V. Gladysheva, Tamara P. Mikryukova, Tatyana V. Tregubchak and Valery B. Loktev

Viruses 2023, 15(9), 1896; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15091896 - 08 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1138

Abstract

The metagenomic analysis of mosquitoes allows for the genetic characterization of mosquito-associated viruses in different regions of the world. This study applied a metagenomic approach to identify novel viral sequences in seven species of mosquitoes collected from the Novosibirsk region of western Siberia. [...] Read more.

The metagenomic analysis of mosquitoes allows for the genetic characterization of mosquito-associated viruses in different regions of the world. This study applied a metagenomic approach to identify novel viral sequences in seven species of mosquitoes collected from the Novosibirsk region of western Siberia. Using NGS sequencing, we identified 15 coding-complete viral polyproteins (genomes) and 15 viral-like partial sequences in mosquitoes. The complete sequences for novel viruses or the partial sequences of capsid proteins, hypothetical viral proteins, and RdRps were used to identify their taxonomy. The novel viral sequences were classified within the orders Tymovirales and Picornavirales and the families Partitiviridae, Totiviridae, Tombusviridae, Iflaviridae, Nodaviridae, Permutotetraviridae, and Solemoviridae, with several attributed to four unclassified RNA viruses. Interestingly, the novel putative viruses and viral sequences were mainly associated with the mosquito Coquillettidia richardii. This study aimed to increase our understanding of the viral diversity in mosquitoes found in the natural habitats of Siberia, which is characterized by very long, snowy, and cold winters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Virus Ecology 2.0)

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13 pages, 3816 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Importance of Including Non-Household Environments in Dengue Vector Control Activities

by Víctor Hugo Peña-García, Francis M. Mutuku, Bryson A. Ndenga, Joel Omari Mbakaya, Samwuel Otieno Ndire, Gladys Adhiambo Agola, Paul S. Mutuku, Said L. Malumbo, Charles M. Ng’ang’a, Jason R. Andrews, Erin A. Mordecai and A. Desiree LaBeaud

Viruses 2023, 15(7), 1550; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15071550 - 14 Jul 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1050

Abstract

Most vector control activities in urban areas are focused on household environments; however, information relating to infection risks in spaces other than households is poor, and the relative risk that these spaces represent has not yet been fully understood. We used data-driven simulations [...] Read more.

Most vector control activities in urban areas are focused on household environments; however, information relating to infection risks in spaces other than households is poor, and the relative risk that these spaces represent has not yet been fully understood. We used data-driven simulations to investigate the importance of household and non-household environments for dengue entomological risk in two Kenyan cities where dengue circulation has been reported. Fieldwork was performed using four strategies that targeted different stages of mosquitoes: ovitraps, larval collections, Prokopack aspiration, and BG-sentinel traps. Data were analyzed separately between household and non-household environments to assess mosquito presence, the number of vectors collected, and the risk factors for vector presence. With these data, we simulated vector and human populations to estimate the parameter m and mosquito-to-human density in both household and non-household environments. Among the analyzed variables, the main difference was found in mosquito abundance, which was consistently higher in non-household environments in Kisumu but was similar in Ukunda. Risk factor analysis suggests that small, clean water-related containers serve as mosquito breeding places in households as opposed to the trash- and rainfall-related containers found in non-household structures. We found that the density of vectors (m) was higher in non-household than household environments in Kisumu and was also similar or slightly lower between both environments in Ukunda. These results suggest that because vectors are abundant, there is a potential risk of transmission in non-household environments; hence, vector control activities should take these spaces into account. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Virus Ecology 2.0)

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22 pages, 3064 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Gut Bacterial Diversity of Field and Laboratory-Reared Aedes albopictus Populations of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

by João M. C. Baltar, Márcio G. Pavan, Jessica Corrêa-Antônio, Dinair Couto-Lima, Rafael Maciel-de-Freitas and Mariana R. David

Viruses 2023, 15(6), 1309; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15061309 - 31 May 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1811

Abstract

Background: The mosquito microbiota impacts different parameters in host biology, such as development, metabolism, immune response and vector competence to pathogens. As the environment is an important source of acquisition of host associate microbes, we described the microbiota and the vector competence to [...] Read more.

Background: The mosquito microbiota impacts different parameters in host biology, such as development, metabolism, immune response and vector competence to pathogens. As the environment is an important source of acquisition of host associate microbes, we described the microbiota and the vector competence to Zika virus (ZIKV) of Aedes albopictus from three areas with distinct landscapes. Methods: Adult females were collected during two different seasons, while eggs were used to rear F1 colonies. Midgut bacterial communities were described in field and F1 mosquitoes as well as in insects from a laboratory colony (>30 generations, LAB) using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. F1 mosquitoes were infected with ZIKV to determine virus infection rates (IRs) and dissemination rates (DRs). Collection season significantly affected the bacterial microbiota diversity and composition, e.g., diversity levels decreased from the wet to the dry season. Field-collected and LAB mosquitoes’ microbiota had similar diversity levels, which were higher compared to F1 mosquitoes. However, the gut microbiota composition of field mosquitoes was distinct from that of laboratory-reared mosquitoes (LAB and F1), regardless of the collection season and location. A possible negative correlation was detected between Acetobacteraceae and Wolbachia, with the former dominating the gut microbiota of F1 Ae. albopictus, while the latter was absent/undetectable. Furthermore, we detected significant differences in infection and dissemination rates (but not in the viral load) between the mosquito populations, but it does not seem to be related to gut microbiota composition, as it was similar between F1 mosquitoes regardless of their population. Conclusions: Our results indicate that the environment and the collection season play a significant role in shaping mosquitoes’ bacterial microbiota. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Virus Ecology 2.0)

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16 pages, 2682 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dengue Exposure and Wolbachia wMel Strain Affects the Fertility of Quiescent Eggs of Aedes aegypti

by Martha Thieme Petersen, Dinair Couto-Lima, Gabriela Azambuja Garcia, Márcio Galvão Pavan, Mariana Rocha David and Rafael Maciel-de-Freitas

Viruses 2023, 15(4), 952; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15040952 - 12 Apr 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1551

Abstract

(1) Background: The deployment of the bacterium Wolbachia to reduce arbovirus transmission is ongoing in several countries worldwide. When Wolbachia-carrying Aedes aegypti are released and established in the field, females may feed on dengue-infected hosts. The effects of simultaneous exposure on life-history [...] Read more.

(1) Background: The deployment of the bacterium Wolbachia to reduce arbovirus transmission is ongoing in several countries worldwide. When Wolbachia-carrying Aedes aegypti are released and established in the field, females may feed on dengue-infected hosts. The effects of simultaneous exposure on life-history traits of Ae. aegypti to Wolbachia wMel strain and dengue-1 virus DENV-1 remain unclear. (2) Methods: We monitored 4 groups (mosquitoes with either DENV-1 or Wolbachia, coinfected with DENV-1 and Wolbachia, as well as negative controls) to estimate Ae. aegypti survival, oviposition success, fecundity, collapsing and fertility of quiescent eggs for 12 weeks. (3) Results: Neither DENV-1 nor Wolbachia had a significant impact on mosquito survival nor on mosquito fecundity, although the last parameter showed a tendency to decrease with ageing. There was a significant decrease in oviposition success in individuals carrying Wolbachia. Wolbachia infection and storage time significantly increased egg collapse parameter on the egg viability assay, while DENV-1 had a slight protective effect on the first four weeks of storage. (4) Conclusions: Despite limitations, our results contribute to better understanding of the tripartite interaction of virus, bacteria and mosquito that may take place in field conditions and aid in guaranteeing the Wolbachia strategy success. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Virus Ecology 2.0)

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9 pages, 266 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vertical Transmission of Sindbis Virus in Culex Mosquitoes

by Emma Dahl, Linnea Öborn, Viktoria Sjöberg, Åke Lundkvist and Jenny C. Hesson

Viruses 2022, 14(9), 1915; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14091915 - 30 Aug 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1502

Abstract

Vertical transmission (VT) is a phenomenon of vector-borne diseases where a pathogen is transferred from an infected arthropod mother to her offspring. For mosquito-borne flavi- and alphaviruses, VT is commonly viewed as rare; however, both field and experimental studies report on vertical transmission [...] Read more.

Vertical transmission (VT) is a phenomenon of vector-borne diseases where a pathogen is transferred from an infected arthropod mother to her offspring. For mosquito-borne flavi- and alphaviruses, VT is commonly viewed as rare; however, both field and experimental studies report on vertical transmission efficiency to a notably varying degree. It is likely that this reflects the different experimental methods used to test vertical transmission efficiency as well as differences between virus–vector combinations. There are very few investigations of the VT of an alphavirus in a Culex vector. Sindbis virus (SINV) is an arthritogenic alphavirus that utilizes Culex species as main vectors both in the summer transmission season and for its persistence over the winter period in northern latitudes. In this study, we investigated the vertical transmission of the SINV in Culex vectors, both in the field and in experimental settings. The detection of SINV RNA in field-collected egg rafts and emerging adults shows that vertical transmission takes place in the field. Experimentally infected females gave rise to adult offspring containing SINV RNA at emergence; however, three to four weeks after emergence none of the offspring contained SINV RNA. This study shows that vertical transmission may be connected to SINV’s ability to persist throughout northern winters and also highlights many aspects of viral replication that need further study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Virus Ecology 2.0)

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

17 pages, 919 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Emergence of Japanese Encephalitis Virus in Australia in 2022: Existing Knowledge of Mosquito Vectors

by Andrew F. van den Hurk, Eloise Skinner, Scott A. Ritchie and John S. Mackenzie

Viruses 2022, 14(6), 1208; https://doi.org/10.3390/v14061208 - 02 Jun 2022

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 5604

Abstract

In early 2022, the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) was identified as the cause of stillborn and mummified piglets in pig farms in southeastern Australia. Human cases and additional pig farms with infected piglets were subsequently identified across a widespread area encompassing four states. [...] Read more.

In early 2022, the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) was identified as the cause of stillborn and mummified piglets in pig farms in southeastern Australia. Human cases and additional pig farms with infected piglets were subsequently identified across a widespread area encompassing four states. To inform surveillance and control programs, we synthesized existing information on Australian vectors of JEV, much of which was generated in response to incursions of JEV into the northern state of Queensland between 1995 and 2005. Members of the Culex sitiens subgroup, particularly Culex annulirostris, should be considered the primary vectors of JEV in Australia, as they yielded >87% of field detections of JEV, were highly efficient laboratory vectors of the virus, readily fed on pigs and birds (the key amplifying hosts of the virus) when they were available, and are widespread and often occur in large populations. Three introduced species, Culex quinquefasciatus, Culex gelidus and Culex tritaeniorhynchus may also serve as vectors, but more information on their geographical distribution, abundance and bionomics in the Australian context is required. Mosquitoes from other genera, such as Aedes and Verrallina, whilst considered relatively poor vectors, could play a regional or supplemental role in transmission, especially facilitating vertical transmission as a virus overwintering mechanism. Additional factors that could impact JEV transmission, including mosquito survival, dispersal and genetics, are also discussed. Possible directions for investigation are provided, especially in the context of the virus emerging in a region with different mosquito fauna and environmental drivers than northern Australia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Virus Ecology 2.0)

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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

9 pages, 1260 KiB

Open AccessBrief Report

Vector Competence of Northern European Culex pipiens Biotype pipiens and Culex torrentium to West Nile Virus and Sindbis Virus

by Stephanie Jansen, Anna Heitmann, Ruut Uusitalo, Essi M. Korhonen, Renke Lühken, Konstantin Kliemke, Unchana Lange, Michelle Helms, Lauri Kirjalainen, Roope Nykänen, Hilppa Gregow, Pentti Pirinen, Giada Rossini, Olli Vapalahti, Jonas Schmidt-Chanasit and Eili Huhtamo

Viruses 2023, 15(3), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15030592 - 21 Feb 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1733

Abstract

The West Nile Virus (WNV) and Sindbis virus (SINV) are avian-hosted mosquito-borne zoonotic viruses that co-circulate in some geographical areas and share vector species such as Culex pipiens and Culex torrentium. These are widespread in Europe, including northern parts and Finland, where [...] Read more.

The West Nile Virus (WNV) and Sindbis virus (SINV) are avian-hosted mosquito-borne zoonotic viruses that co-circulate in some geographical areas and share vector species such as Culex pipiens and Culex torrentium. These are widespread in Europe, including northern parts and Finland, where SINV is endemic, but WNV is currently not. As WNV is spreading northwards in Europe, we wanted to assess the experimental vector competence of Finnish Culex pipiens and Culex torrentium mosquitoes to WNV and SINV in different temperature profiles. Both mosquito species were found susceptible to both viruses and got infected via infectious blood meal at a mean temperature of 18 °C. WNV-positive saliva was detected at a mean temperature of 24 °C, whereas SINV-positive saliva was detected already at a mean temperature of 18 °C. Cx. torrentium was found to be a more efficient vector for WNV and SINV over Cx. pipiens. Overall, the results were in line with the previous studies performed with more southern vector populations. The current climate does not seem optimal for WNV circulation in Finland, but temporary summertime transmission could occur in the future if all other essential factors are in place. More field data would be needed for monitoring and understanding the northward spreading of WNV in Europe. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Virus Ecology 2.0)

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2 pages, 188 KiB

Open AccessComment

Comment on van den Hurk et al. The Emergence of Japanese Encephalitis Virus in Australia in 2022: Existing Knowledge of Mosquito Vectors. Viruses 2022, 14, 1208

by Michelle Nicole Brinkhoff

Viruses 2023, 15(2), 270; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15020270 - 18 Jan 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 900

Abstract

I read with interest the article “The Emergence of Japanese Encephalitis Virus in Australia in 2022: Existing Knowledge of Mosquito Vectors” [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Virus Ecology 2.0)

35 pages, 1378 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

A Systematic Review of Mathematical Models of Dengue Transmission and Vector Control: 2010–2020

by Samson T. Ogunlade, Michael T. Meehan, Adeshina I. Adekunle and Emma S. McBryde

Viruses 2023, 15(1), 254; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15010254 - 16 Jan 2023

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3515

Abstract

Vector control methods are considered effective in averting dengue transmission. However, several factors may modify their impact. Of these controls, chemical methods, in the long run, may increase mosquitoes’ resistance to chemicides, thereby decreasing control efficacy. The biological methods, which may be self-sustaining [...] Read more.

Vector control methods are considered effective in averting dengue transmission. However, several factors may modify their impact. Of these controls, chemical methods, in the long run, may increase mosquitoes’ resistance to chemicides, thereby decreasing control efficacy. The biological methods, which may be self-sustaining and very effective, could be hampered by seasonality or heatwaves (resulting in, e.g., loss of Wolbachia infection). The environmental methods that could be more effective than the chemical methods are under-investigated. In this study, a systematic review is conducted to explore the present understanding of the effectiveness of vector control approaches via dengue transmission models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mosquito-Borne Virus Ecology 2.0)

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