Parasit Vectors [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Optimization of the irradiation dose for Anopheles coluzzii for implementation of the sterile insect technique.
Séré BV, Sawadogo SP, Agboho AP … +9 more , Poda BS, Tioyé DJJ, Ouattara ZS, Ouedraogo J, Ouédraogo TF, Somda NSB, Diabaté A, Gnankiné O, Dabiré RK
Parasit Vectors · 2026 May · PMID 42087205 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The sterile insect technique (SIT) is a population suppression strategy that involves releasing sterile male insects, which mate with wild females, thereby inducing sterility in the target population. Althoug...
BACKGROUND: The sterile insect technique (SIT) is a population suppression strategy that involves releasing sterile male insects, which mate with wild females, thereby inducing sterility in the target population. Although SIT represents a promising complementary approach for malaria vector control, its success depends on identifying an irradiation dose that ensures high sterility while preserving the biological performance of males. This study aimed to determine the optimal irradiation dose for sterilizing Anopheles coluzzii, a major malaria vector in West Africa, under laboratory conditions in Burkina Faso. METHODS: Experiments were conducted using the 13th generation (G13) of a laboratory strain of Anopheles coluzzii. Pupae were irradiated with doses ranging from 40 to 120 Gy. Key biological parameters, including adult emergence rate, insemination rate, fertility (egg hatching rate), and survival, were evaluated under controlled laboratory conditions. RESULTS: Irradiation did not affect adult emergence at any of the tested doses. Though insemination rates declined at higher doses, they were not significantly impacted by doses between 40 and 70 Gy. All irradiation doses negatively affected mosquito survival, with more pronounced effects observed at higher doses. Egg hatching rates remained unaffected at 40 and 50 Gy, were significantly reduced at 60 Gy, and were completely suppressed at 70 Gy. CONCLUSIONS: An irradiation dose of 70 Gy appears optimal for Anopheles coluzzii, because it induces complete sterility (0% hatching) while maintaining insemination and emergence rates similar to those of the control group, despite a dose-dependent reduction in survival. Further studies are needed to evaluate the mating competitiveness of males irradiated at this dose under semi-field and field conditions to support the implementation of the sterile insect technique (SIT) in Burkina Faso.
West Nile virus detected in louse flies (Diptera: Hippoboscidae) collected from rehabilitated raptors in South Carolina.
Brown KM, Weber M, Zellars K … +6 more , Gual-Gonzalez L, Meyer-Torelli MM, Skvarla MJ, Knee W, Reeves WK, Nolan MS
Parasit Vectors · 2026 May · PMID 42087176 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Louse flies (Diptera: Hippoboscidae), commonly known as keds or flat flies, are a family of insects that are obligate ectoparasites of birds and mammals, with 216 species documented worldwide. Approximately 7...
BACKGROUND: Louse flies (Diptera: Hippoboscidae), commonly known as keds or flat flies, are a family of insects that are obligate ectoparasites of birds and mammals, with 216 species documented worldwide. Approximately 75% of the species in the Hippoboscidae family infest birds, while the remaining 25% infest various mammals. Despite the diversity within this family, understanding of their prevalence, vector competencies, and geographic distribution is still quite limited. METHODS: From August 2023 to December 2024, louse flies were collected from wild raptors brought for rehabilitation to the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, South Carolina, USA, as part of a surveillance study. Ectoparasites were removed and stored in 75% ethanol (initially) and DNA/RNA Shield (later), and comprehensive health reports were obtained for all admitted birds of prey. Zoo staff collected saliva samples from a subset of raptors with attached flies, and all samples were tested for West Nile virus (WNV) via real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULTS: Over the 16-month study, approximately 75 louse flies were collected from 21 birds representing six avian species. The most louse flies collected were Icosta americana (Leach, 1817), while only two samples contained Icosta rufiventris, a species previously unreported in South Carolina. Louse flies were pooled for RT-PCR testing, yielding 36 fly pools with an overall 42% WNV positivity rate. Twelve raptor saliva samples were also available for WNV testing; of these, four (33%) tested positive. CONCLUSIONS: This represents the first WNV analysis in avian louse flies collected in South Carolina and, to our knowledge, includes the first report of Icosta rufiventris in the region. Discordant results between raptor WNV infection and the presence of attached ectoparasite WNV underscore a major knowledge gap within the scientific community regarding the role of avian louse flies in the WNV transmission cycle. Further research is needed to determine whether louse flies represent a potential WNV vector for birds.
Molecular screening of mosquitoes for filarioid helminths in Slovenia.
Glinšek Biškup U, Knap N, Korva M … +5 more , Avšič Županc T, Adam K, Knapič T, Zakotnik S, Šoba B
Parasit Vectors · 2026 May · PMID 42083038 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Dirofilaria repens infections have already been reported in both dogs and humans in Slovenia. Xenomonitoring of mosquitoes for filarioid helminths has been used in many studies across Europe to analyze the au...
BACKGROUND: Dirofilaria repens infections have already been reported in both dogs and humans in Slovenia. Xenomonitoring of mosquitoes for filarioid helminths has been used in many studies across Europe to analyze the autochthonous occurrence of filarioids. The aim of this study was to identify potential mosquito vectors of D. repens and other filarioid helminths in Slovenia, to shed light on the significance and extent of possible autochthonous transmission of filarioids in the country. METHODS: This study was a part of the Slovenian nationwide screening program of mosquitoes for filarioid helminths and viruses. Adult mosquitoes were collected from numerous sites throughout Slovenia in 2021 and 2022, and were screened for filarioid helminths using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting a 94-base pair (bp) fragment of the 12S rRNA gene from the mitochondrial genome. Positive samples, which were confirmed by conventional PCR targeting 667 bp of the COI gene, were sequenced and compared with GenBank sequences for species identification. RESULTS: Almost 56,000 adult mosquitoes were screened for filarioid helminths, which were grouped into 5446 pools. The number of mosquitoes in each pool ranged from 1 to 60. Of all the screened pools, 29 were positive for filarioid helminths, giving a total minimum infection rate (MIR) of 0.52 per 1000 mosquitoes. Alongside D. repens, which was detected in six pools, the following were also identified: Setaria tundra in 15 pools; S. labiatopapillosa in two pools; and an unknown filarioid species in six mosquito pools. In the study, we found eight mosquito species in Slovenia that may transmit filarioid worms, including Aedes vexans, Ae. albopictus, Ae. cinereus, Ae. sticticus, Anopheles maculipennis s.l., An. claviger, Coquillettidia richiardii, and Culex pipiens s.l., indicating that multiple species could contribute to the local transmission of these parasites. CONCLUSIONS: The detection of filarioid helminths in Slovenian mosquitoes is consistent with the previous findings of potential mosquito species that can carry D. repens, S. tundra, and S. labiatopapillosa in Europe, indicating the potential for local transmission. Consequently, dirofilarioid infections in dogs and humans, and setarial infections in roe deer, should be considered. Further research is required to better understand the epidemiology of these infections in Europe.
Surveillance of tick-borne pathogens in ticks collected from Swiss residents.
Ghasemian E, Marquis B, Tagini F … +10 more , Aeby S, Tischhauser W, Lienhard R, Beuret C, Martin V, Hälg S, Müller P, Croxatto A, Opota O, Greub G
Parasit Vectors · 2026 May · PMID 42083024 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) represent an increasing public health threat globally. Climate change has facilitated tick range expansion and extended active seasons, contributing to rising TBD incidence rates. I...
BACKGROUND: Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) represent an increasing public health threat globally. Climate change has facilitated tick range expansion and extended active seasons, contributing to rising TBD incidence rates. In Switzerland, TBDs represent a major health concern. This study aims to characterise patterns in spatio-temporal distribution of tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) in ticks removed from humans across Switzerland, examine associations between tick developmental stages and TBP infection prevalence, and analyse co-infection patterns amongst different TBPs. METHODS: We employed the "Tick Prevention" citizen science app to collect spatial and temporal data on tick bite incidents and to obtain tick specimens for pathogen screening throughout Switzerland during 2018-2020. Specimens underwent DNA extraction for TBP detection. Quantitative PCR targeted different TBPs at genus and species levels. Data analysis examined TBP infection prevalence in submitted ticks across geographic regions, seasons, and tick developmental stages, including co-infection patterns in ticks. RESULTS: Of 1056 tick specimens, 352 (33.3%) tested positive for at least one TBP, with Borrelia spp. (16.3%) and Rickettsia spp. (12.69%) showing higher infection prevalence than other TBPs, including Neoehrlichia mikurensis (5%), Anaplasma phagocytophilum (1.8%), Chlamydiales (1.8%), and Babesia spp. (1.7%). Co-infections occurred in 59 specimens (5.6%), predominantly dual infections (5.2%), with Borrelia spp. and N. mikurensis representing the most common co-infection pattern. Among 58 larvae, 898 nymphs, and 96 adult ticks examined, tick infection prevalence increased with developmental stage, rising from larvae (18.9%) to nymphs (32.6%) to adults (48.9%), consistent with pathogen acquisition through successive blood meals during tick development. Spatially, TBPs were detected across 70 of 76 Swiss administrative regions, with most TBPs displaying uniform distribution. Temporally, tick-human encounters peaked during May-June (59.7% of announced events), with TBP detection rates remaining steady (28-37%) across the tick-active months from April to September. One-third of examined ticks harboured at least one TBP, with weighted models indicating infection prevalence in submitted ticks could reach 45% in certain Swiss Plateau regions. CONCLUSION: These findings emphasise the importance of continued tick and TBP surveillance programmes to inform public health interventions and prevention.
Molecular characterization and immunoprotective potential of microneme protein 3 from Eimeria necatrix.
Feng Q, Yan D, Xue N … +6 more , Liu D, Cai W, Zhou Y, Hou Z, Xu J, Tao J
Parasit Vectors · 2026 May · PMID 42069683 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Eimeria necatrix, a member of the Apicomplexa phylum, is one of the most pathogenic parasites, causing high mortality in chickens. Microneme proteins (MICs) play essential roles in host cell recognition and i...
BACKGROUND: Eimeria necatrix, a member of the Apicomplexa phylum, is one of the most pathogenic parasites, causing high mortality in chickens. Microneme proteins (MICs) play essential roles in host cell recognition and invasion by apicomplexan parasites and are also attractive candidates for vaccine development. However, comprehensive studies on E. necatrix MICs remain limited. METHODS: Eimeria necatrix MIC3 gene (EnMIC3) was amplified and expressed in Escherichia coli. The recombinant protein (rEnMIC3) was characterized via SDS-PAGE and Western blot. The antigenicity of rEnMIC3 and its localization in sporozoites (SZ) and second-generation merozoites (MZ-2) of E. necatrix were determined by Western blot and indirect immunofluorescence analyses (IFAs). The dynamic expression of EnMIC3 across different developmental stages and its impact on sporozoite invasion of host cells were analyzed. The immune protection provided by rEnMIC3 was evaluated in chickens using weight gain, lesion scores, oocyst production, anticoccidial index (ACI), and antibody levels. RESULTS: The open reading frame of EnMIC3 was 798 bp, encoding a 265-amino acid protein with a predicted molecular weight of 28.50 kDa. EnMIC3 contained a signal peptide and a single epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like domain. The rEnMIC3 with an approximate molecular weight of 36 kDa could be specifically recognized by convalescent sera from chickens infected with E. necatrix. The molecular mass of the native protein was approximately 35 kDa, and it localizes to the apical region in SZ but exhibits a cytoplasmic distribution in MZ-2. EnMIC3 mRNA was expressed at significantly higher levels in SZ than in MZ-2, whereas protein expression displayed an inverse pattern. Anti-rEnMIC3 polyclonal antibodies inhibited sporozoite invasion of DF-1 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Vaccination with rEnMIC3 conferred effective protection against E. necatrix challenge, with the high-dose group (200 µg) achieving the highest ACI value (171.32) and markedly elevated serum antibody levels. CONCLUSIONS: These findings not only offer a foundation for understanding the role of EnMIC3 protein in the host invasion of E. necatrix but also present a potential protective antigen of E. necatrix for the development of a subunit vaccine against avian coccidiosis.
The gut metabolite arachidonic acid alleviates intestinal injury induced by a Toxoplasma gondii strain isolated from a wild rodent.
Yuan H, Song Y, Nie L … +9 more , Yang Z, Yang L, Yang K, Yang Y, Li W, Wang X, Zhang XX, Hua Y, Yuan ZG
Parasit Vectors · 2026 May · PMID 42069617 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Wild isolates of Toxoplasma gondii may exhibit different virulence characteristics and host adaptability compared with those of laboratory strains. In this study, we isolated a novel rodent-derived T. gondii...
BACKGROUND: Wild isolates of Toxoplasma gondii may exhibit different virulence characteristics and host adaptability compared with those of laboratory strains. In this study, we isolated a novel rodent-derived T. gondii strain, denoted TgRodGz1, and evaluated its pathogenic features. METHODS: TgRodGz1 was isolated from T. gondii-positive wild rodents in Guangdong Province and compared with the RH and Me49 strains in C57BL/6 mice. Virulence and intestinal injury were evaluated by survival analysis, brain cyst quantification, histopathology, tight junction assessment and qPCR. Gut microbiota and metabolic alterations were analyzed by metagenomic sequencing and LC-MS/MS-based metabolomics. RESULTS: Compared with theT. gondii laboratory strains RH and Me49, TgRodGz1 was associated with more pronounced intestinal injury, including villus atrophy, barrier disruption and downregulation of tight junction proteins and increased gut permeability and inflammation. Metagenomic analysis revealed significant intestinal flora dysbiosis, with a marked reduction in beneficial bacteria and expansion of pathogenic bacteria. Metabolomic analysis revealed suppression of arachidonic acid (ARA) metabolism during TgRodGz1 infection. Supplementation with ARA did not directly inhibit parasite growth but significantly alleviated intestinal lesions, reduced brain cyst burden and attenuated inflammatory responses, including microglial activation. CONCLUSIONS: These findings suggest that TgRodGz1 represents a distinct T. gondii genotype associated with pronounced intestinal pathology and suggest that ARA supplementation may alleviate intestinal and neuroinflammatory changes associated with T. gondii infection.
Dietary variations drive divergent phenotypic, transcriptomic, and metatranscriptomic profiles in Biomphalaria glabrata, a schistosomiasis vector snail.
Famakinde DO, Lonergan C, Wells D … +2 more , Gobert GN, McVeigh P
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 42063119 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The freshwater snail Biomphalaria glabrata is an important natural vector for the human parasitic trematode Schistosoma mansoni, which causes schistosomiasis. In the laboratory, B. glabrata are routinely main...
BACKGROUND: The freshwater snail Biomphalaria glabrata is an important natural vector for the human parasitic trematode Schistosoma mansoni, which causes schistosomiasis. In the laboratory, B. glabrata are routinely maintained on simple lettuce diets. We aimed to explore and compare the impact of alternative diets on snail performance, global gene expression, and microbiome. METHODS: Snails were raised in groups on fresh lettuce (FL), fish food (FF), and artificial snail gel (SG) diets for 8 weeks, while measuring dietary impacts on growth, survival, and fecundity. RNA sequencing (RNA-Seq) was performed to correlate dietary phenotypes with changes in the snail transcriptome and associated microbial metatranscriptome. RESULTS: Fish food (FF) and SG diets markedly enhanced snail growth, survival, and fecundity, with FF generating the highest fecundity rate. RNA-Seq identified 21,887 expressed genes in the snail's transcriptome. Of these, diet significantly modulated 6501 genes (padj < 0.01), representing 13.0% of the predicted genes in the B. glabrata genome. Fish food (FF) and SG diets drove upregulation of genes associated with antimicrobial immunity, growth, and reproduction, while elevated expression of genes linked to xenobiotic metabolism and oxidative stress was observed in FL-fed snails. Metatranscriptomic analysis identified 104 microbial classes, with a total of 23 classes significantly enriched in FF and SG snails, including short-chain fatty acid (SCFA)-producing and nutrient-cycling bacteria. A significant correlation (r = 0.63, P = 0.001) linked differentially expressed genes to enriched microbial transcripts, highlighting the impact of diet on key snail health and performance metrics. CONCLUSIONS: This work is the first nutritranscriptomic analysis of laboratory-bred B. glabrata. We describe key insights into the diet-phenotype-transcriptome-microbiome axis, which will inform dietary precision and optimisation for laboratory culture of B. glabrata. These data also highlight fundamental aspects of snail biology that could be exploited for molecular snail control approaches.
Human occupation, not forest structure, determines sand fly abundance in the Amazon.
Brilhante AF, Galvis-Ovallos F, Jordão FT … +11 more , Ramos LJ, Ilacqua RC, Abreu WU, Nolan MS, Madeira FP, Silva GM, Santos TC, Prist PR, Valle D, Sperança MA, Laporta GZ
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 42063090 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Across Amazonian deforestation frontiers, phlebotomine sand flies transmit Leishmania spp., the causative agents of American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL). Landscape modification can alter vector ecology and...
BACKGROUND: Across Amazonian deforestation frontiers, phlebotomine sand flies transmit Leishmania spp., the causative agents of American cutaneous leishmaniasis (ACL). Landscape modification can alter vector ecology and transmission risk, yet the relative roles of forest cover, landscape configuration, and deforestation timeline remain poorly understood. We evaluated how landscape composition and configuration, assessed across multiple spatial scales, and deforestation timeline influence sand fly abundance and Leishmania infection in Cruzeiro do Sul, Acre, Brazil. METHODS: Sand flies were collected at 20 study sites during two cross-sectional surveys conducted in 2022 and 2024. Landscape metrics, including forest cover and edge density, were quantified within circular buffers of 3, 5, and 7 km around each site. Deforestation timeline, defined as time since initial forest loss, was used as a proxy for the duration of human occupation. Associations with sand fly abundance and Leishmania infection were assessed using Bayesian regression models, applying negative binomial models for abundance and binomial models for infection probability. Infection was detected using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and confirmed by Sanger sequencing. RESULTS: Forest cover and edge density, across all spatial scales, were not associated with sand fly abundance or Leishmania infection. In contrast, longer deforestation timelines were consistently associated with higher sand fly abundance, driven largely by increased captures of the sand fly species Nyssomyia antunesi. No landscape variable showed a clear association with infection occurrence. CONCLUSIONS: Sand fly abundance in this Amazonian frontier was associated with the duration of human occupation rather than with current forest structure. These findings suggest that vector populations can persist in human-modified landscapes and highlight the importance of incorporating deforestation timeline into ACL surveillance and risk assessment.
Blockade of the CCL2-CCR2 axis attenuates fibrosis and parasite load in vesicular echinococcosis by inhibiting the PI3K-AKT pathway that regulates angiogenesis and hepatic stellate cell apoptosis.
Fan B, Ma Y, Meng M … +7 more , Chen J, Qi X, Sun Y, Zhou X, Wang H, Ma X, Wang L
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 42057202 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2)-C-C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2) signaling axis is critically involved in angiogenesis and cellular invasion; however, the therapeutic potential of its targeted blo...
BACKGROUND: The C-C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2)-C-C chemokine receptor type 2 (CCR2) signaling axis is critically involved in angiogenesis and cellular invasion; however, the therapeutic potential of its targeted blockade on alveolar echinococcosis (AE) remains largely unexplored. This study aimed to determine whether RS504393, a selective CCR2 antagonist, can inhibit the progression of AE by blocking the CCL2-CCR2 axis and modulating its downstream pathogenic mechanisms. METHODS: In this study, bioinformatics analysis of the GSE124362 dataset was combined with molecular docking simulations. Liver tissues from patients with AE and from Echinococcus multilocularis-infected mice were examined through histopathological and immunohistochemical staining methods. Pathological alterations and parasitic load were assessed by Western blot and quantitative real-time PCR (RT-PCR). An in vitro co-culture model involving Echinococcus multilocularis protoscolex-stimulated endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), JS1 hepatic stellate cells (JS1) and RAW264.7 macrophages was established to evaluate angiogenesis, fibrogenic activity and macrophage polarization. RESULTS: Integrated bioinformatics and molecular docking analyses revealed CCL2-CCR2 overexpression and high-affinity binding during AE progression. Treatment with RS504393 significantly attenuated hepatic fibrosis, suppressed phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-protein kinase B (AKT) pathway activation and reduced M2 macrophage polarization in central lesion tissue of E. multilocularis-infected mice . In vitro, RS504393 inhibited angiogenesis driven by EPCs, induced apoptosis in JS1 cells, and redirected macrophage polarization from the M2 towards a more anti-parasitic phenotype. CONCLUSIONS: CCR2 blockade with RS504393 attenuates AE progression by inhibiting PI3K-AKT signaling, suppressing angiogenesis and inducing stellate cell apoptosis, collectively reducing hepatic fibrosis and parasitic burden. Our findings provide a mechanistic rationale for repurposing CCR2 antagonists as a novel host-directed therapeutic strategy for echinococcosis.
Polymorphic marker regions support divergence of Mansonella sp. "DEUX" and M. perstans.
Fischer M, Rodi M, Thapa PJ … +10 more , Sicard CM, Inoue J, Berner L, Matsiegui PB, Köhler C, Kreidenweiss A, Ramharter M, Agnandji ST, Ossowski S, Held J
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 42046095 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Though being prevalent worldwide, Mansonella parasites are among the most neglected filarial nematodes. The true prevalence and genetic diversity of this genus have yet to be fully understood. Mansonella sp....
BACKGROUND: Though being prevalent worldwide, Mansonella parasites are among the most neglected filarial nematodes. The true prevalence and genetic diversity of this genus have yet to be fully understood. Mansonella sp. "DEUX" is a recently described filarial nematode infecting humans and other primates in Gabon and Cameroon, although its status as distinct species has been controversial. We investigated four different polymorphic regions to further explore the genetic differences between Mansonella species and to support their status as distinct species. METHODS: We screened whole blood samples collected in EDTA tubes from individuals from rural areas in Gabon for mono-infections with only one Mansonella species, either Mansonella sp. "DEUX" or Mansonella perstans, as determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) targeting the ITS1 region. We also included nine blood samples from Togo that had been collected as dried blood spots on 903™ protein saver cards and identified as M. perstans mono-infection. We further amplified, sequenced, and analyzed three molecular marker regions cox1, 12S rDNA, and 28S rDNA for their potential to discriminate between the two Mansonella species. RESULTS: In total, 93 mono-infected blood samples were identified. Distinct single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) patterns for the two investigated Mansonella species were consistently detected in all four loci. The observed nucleotide divergences were comparable to other Onchocercidae family members. Species identification based on the ITS1 marker region was fully concordant with the SNP patterns in all samples. A complete genetic dimorphism could be observed in each of the four marker regions investigated. CONCLUSIONS: The four polymorphic markers, ITS1, cox1, 12S rDNA, and 28S rDNA, consistently demonstrated clear dimorphism between the two Mansonella species. Our results support the classification of Mansonella sp. "DEUX" as a distinct, nonrecombining Mansonella species within the Onchocercidae family.
Efficacy of Credelio Quattro™ chewable tablets containing lotilaner, moxidectin, pyrantel, and praziquantel against Ctenocephalides felis and Rhipicephalus sanguineus infestations on dogs.
Young L, Wang X, Wiseman S … +5 more , Everett WR, Maree R, DiCosty UR, Rautenbach C, Savadelis MD
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 42045933 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Fleas and ticks can be found globally and are of both veterinary and human health concern due to their ability to transmit various vector-borne diseases. Heavy flea and tick infestations can result in signifi...
BACKGROUND: Fleas and ticks can be found globally and are of both veterinary and human health concern due to their ability to transmit various vector-borne diseases. Heavy flea and tick infestations can result in significant blood loss, while flea infestations can result in intense pruritus. The use of safe and effective ectoparasiticides in veterinary medicine is a crucial part of protecting both pets and humans from infestations and transmission of vector-borne diseases. METHODS: The efficacy of a novel endectocide, Credelio Quattro, containing lotilaner, moxidectin, praziquantel, and pyrantel, was evaluated in four masked studies: one against Ctenocephalides felis and three against the dose-limiting tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Dogs were orally administered placebo, Credelio Quattro™, lotilaner only (Credelio™, Study 2), or pyrantel only (Study 2) in a fed state on Day 0. Experimental infestations with C. felis were conducted on Days -1, 6, 13, 20, 29, and 35 with 100 adult fleas. Fleas were removed and categorized as either live or dead 24 h post-treatment and 24 h post-infestation thereafter. Experimental infestations with R. sanguineus were conducted on Days -2, 5, 12, 19, and 30 with 50 adult ticks. Ticks were removed and categorized as attached or unattached and then live or dead 48 h post-treatment and 48 h post-infestation thereafter. RESULTS: Credelio Quattro demonstrated 100% (P < 0.0001) efficacy against C. felis, with no live fleas recovered at time points evaluated through 36 days post-treatment. Additionally, Credelio Quattro demonstrated 97.1-100% (P < 0.0001) efficacy through Day 30 against the established dose-limiting tick species, R. sanguineus. In Study 2, pyrantel demonstrated ≤ 46.6% (P ≥ 0.0601) efficacy while lotilaner provided ≥ 99.6% (P ≤ 0.0007) efficacy, confirming lotilaner as the acaricidal active ingredient in Credelio Quattro. Adverse events were reported in both treatment groups, including dermatitis, alopecia, lameness, and a chest wound. One dog in a Credelio Quattro treatment group experienced vomiting and bloody diarrhea that was considered possibly treatment-related. CONCLUSIONS: These studies confirm the safety and effectiveness of a single dose of Credelio Quattro for the treatment and control of C. felis and R. sanguineus infestations on dogs for 1 month.
Integrated transcriptomic and proteomic analysis of cancer-suppressive Mesocestoides corti larvae.
Vajs V, Mikeš L, Leontovyč R … +7 more , Tulpová M, Korená L, Tolde O, Macháček T, Brábek J, Rösel D, Horák P
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 42036657 · Full text
BACKGROUND: The larvae of Mesocestoides corti have been previously shown to abrogate the growth and metastasis of the highly aggressive B16F10 melanoma in mice. In order to investigate the potential ways in which this ef...
BACKGROUND: The larvae of Mesocestoides corti have been previously shown to abrogate the growth and metastasis of the highly aggressive B16F10 melanoma in mice. In order to investigate the potential ways in which this effect is mediated, we present, to the best of our knowledge, the most comprehensive analyses of M. corti larval molecular data so far, while listing and exploring various potentially immunomodulatory molecules found therein. We show expression and protein abundance in larvae under in vivo and in vitro conditions. A promising ortholog, M. corti Kunitz-type chymotrypsin-specific inhibitor 1 (McKI-C1) of a known cancer-suppressive Kunitz protein from Echinococcus granulosus is also tested, both in vitro and in vivo. METHODS: In order to explore the potential effector mechanisms and molecules behind its cancer-suppressive capabilities, we analyzed the M. corti larval transcriptome in the C57BL/6J and ICR mouse strains, as well as in vitro. The proteomic profiles of whole homogenate and excretory-secretory products of tetrathyridia were analyzed by nano-shotgun liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry and thoroughly annotated. A Kunitz protein candidate (McKI-C1) was recombinantly expressed in Escherichia coli, biochemically characterized, and functionally tested for its anti-cancer effect with mouse melanoma B16F10 cells and mouse ovarian carcinoma ID8 cells. RESULTS: We present, to the best of our knowledge, the most extensive list of experimentally verified M. corti protein products. Many proteins potentially responsible for this tapeworm's immune-related cancer-suppressive abilities and immunomodulation were found within its proteome and transcriptome. These include numerous members of the superfamily of cysteine-rich secretory proteins, such as glioma pathogenesis-related-like proteins, and Kunitz-domain proteins. Functional tests of recombinant McKI-C1 performed both in vitro and in vivo did not confirm its expected tumor-suppressing properties. Therefore, the exact effectors of this tapeworm's likely immune-mediated anti-tumor capabilities need to be examined in further studies. CONCLUSIONS: The transcriptomic and proteomic analysis of M. corti larvae carried out in the present study produced an extensive list of promising immunomodulatory or cancer-suppressive molecules. While the molecule chosen for analysis in the present study, McKI-C1, did not show any effect in vitro or in vivo, the immunomodulatory or cancer-suppressive potential of the other experimentally verified molecules remains of interest.
Knockdown effects of pyrethroid- and neonicotinoid-treated netting against the sand fly Phlebotomus papatasi (Diptera: Psychodidae).
Agbajelola VI, Roachell WD, Bast JD … +5 more , Solis ME, Ramutkowski AJ, Rowland TE, Lane GS, Raghavan RK
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 42032784 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Phlebotomine sand flies are important vectors of leishmaniasis and pose persistent risks to human and animal health in endemic and operational environments, including military settings. Barrier-based vector c...
BACKGROUND: Phlebotomine sand flies are important vectors of leishmaniasis and pose persistent risks to human and animal health in endemic and operational environments, including military settings. Barrier-based vector control strategies, such as insecticide-treated netting, provide a practical means of reducing sand fly contact. However, comparative data on the performance of different insecticide classes applied to barrier materials remain limited. This study evaluated the knockdown efficacy of two commercially available insecticides, the pyrethroid esfenvalerate and the neonicotinoid dinotefuran, applied to high-blockage (80%) barrier netting against laboratory-reared Phlebotomus papatasi. METHODS: Adult sand flies were exposed to treated and untreated netting for contact durations of 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 min. Knockdown responses were quantified using standardized laboratory bioassays. The effects of insecticide treatment and exposure time and their interaction were assessed using two-way analysis of variance, with model assumptions verified through residual diagnostics and pairwise comparisons. Probit analyses were conducted to estimate exposure-response relationships and median knockdown times. RESULTS: Knockdown increased significantly with exposure time for both insecticide treatments, whereas no knockdown was observed in untreated controls. Significant effects of treatment (P < 0.001) and exposure time (P < 0.001) and their interaction (P < 0.001) were detected, indicating treatment-dependent temporal differences in knockdown response. Both insecticides produced significantly greater knockdown than controls, with no significant difference in overall mean knockdown between esfenvalerate and dinotefuran (P = 0.89). Although temporal differences in knockdown patterns were observed, probit modeling did not detect a statistically significant difference in fitted slopes between treatments. CONCLUSIONS: Both insecticide-treated barrier nets induced rapid, exposure-dependent knockdown in P. papatasi. These findings support the use of pyrethroid- and neonicotinoid-treated barrier netting as effective chemical barriers within integrated sand fly control strategies to reduce leishmaniasis risk in military and endemic environments.
Contrasting shifts in potential climatic suitability of two Thelazia callipaeda vectors (Phortica okadai and Phortica variegata) across China and Europe under climate change.
Luo Y, Sun D, Xu Y … +10 more , Jia S, Chen Z, Yan R, Zhou J, Luo B, Long D, Yue R, Otranto D, Liu H, Wang L
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 42032639 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Phortica okadai and Phortica variegata are the primary vectors of the zoonotic eyeworm Thelazia callipaeda, which infects humans and various mammals. Climate change and intensified human activities have alter...
BACKGROUND: Phortica okadai and Phortica variegata are the primary vectors of the zoonotic eyeworm Thelazia callipaeda, which infects humans and various mammals. Climate change and intensified human activities have altered the potential suitable habitats of these vectors, posing a risk of expanded T. callipaeda transmission. This study aims to predict the current potential suitable habitats and future distribution patterns of the two species, providing a scientific basis for vector-borne disease prevention and control. METHODS: Species occurrence records were compiled from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF; https://www.gbif.org/ ) and systematic literature reviews. The MaxEnt model was utilized to identify key environmental determinants influencing vector distribution. Climate data from WorldClim, future climate scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5, SSP5-8.5), elevation data, and Human Footprint Index (HFP) were integrated to predict potential suitable habitats and future distributions (2041-2060) across China and Europe. RESULTS: The key environmental drivers for P. okadai are warmest quarter precipitation, HFP, and temperature seasonality, and for P. variegata they are HFP, coldest quarter precipitation, and temperature annual range. Currently, the suitable habitats of P. okadai are concentrated in central, eastern, and northeastern coastal China, with only sporadic low-suitability patches recorded in Europe. P. variegata exhibits a wide distribution across the UK, France, Belgium, and Italy, with nearly the entire Mediterranean coastal belt and its associated offshore islands falling within its suitable range. Under future climate scenarios, the suitable area of P. okadai is projected to expand significantly in Central/Western Europe (Italy, Austria, Switzerland, and western Russia). In contrast, the suitable habitats of P. variegata will shift significantly: The central-southern-eastern European transitional belt will lose almost all suitable habitat across scenarios, while the Mediterranean littoral and its offshore islands remain climatically suitable. CONCLUSIONS: The suitable area for P. okadai is projected to increase significantly, whereas that for P. variegata is expected to decline. Temperature and precipitation emerge as primary drivers of these contrasting distribution shifts. These findings underscore the need for enhanced vector surveillance and control strategies for T. callipaeda, particularly regarding the expanding P. okadai populations in Europe.
Culex territans mosquitoes as a vector of Giant Anuran Trypanosomes.
Reinhold J, Roeske I, Schmeder IE … +3 more , Halbert E, S Mcleod D, Lahondère C
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 42015311 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Amphibian populations are declining worldwide, in part due to diseases caused by viruses, fungi, andparasites. Giant Anuran Trypanosomes (GATs) are parasites that affect frogs worldwide and require a vector t...
BACKGROUND: Amphibian populations are declining worldwide, in part due to diseases caused by viruses, fungi, andparasites. Giant Anuran Trypanosomes (GATs) are parasites that affect frogs worldwide and require a vector to betransmitted. Culex territans is an amphibian-feeding mosquito suspected to be a vector of trypanosomes, but this hasnot previously been confirmed. METHODS: In this study, we tested blood-fed Cx. territans and blood from their primary anuran hosts, Rana clamitans and R. catesbeiana, in southwest Virginia. Additionally, we tested potential routes of transmission from the mosquito tothe frog. RESULTS: We found trypanosomes present in both mosquitoes and anurans and found trypanosomes present in thefeces 2 days after being blood fed on infected frogs, as well as in the body and saliva 14 days post-feeding. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, this study contributes to our knowledge of the GAT epidemiology and the role Cx. territans mightplay in their transmission.
Catching up with old friends: a 2-year survey of phlebotomine sand fly-borne phleboviruses presence in southern Portugal.
Maia C, Parreira R, Kurum E … +7 more , Lucchese F, Cruz J, Marmé R, Martinez-Barciela Y, Polina A, Charrel R, Ayhan N
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 42002815 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Phlebotomine sand flies are vectors of several pathogens of medical and veterinary relevance worldwide, including three human viruses of the genus Phlebovirus in Europe: sand fly fever Sicilian virus (Phlebov...
BACKGROUND: Phlebotomine sand flies are vectors of several pathogens of medical and veterinary relevance worldwide, including three human viruses of the genus Phlebovirus in Europe: sand fly fever Sicilian virus (Phlebovirus siciliaense, SFSV), Toscana virus (Phlebovirus toscanaense, TOSV), and sand fly fever Naples virus (Phlebovirus napoliense, SFNV). Most human infections are asymptomatic or cause influenza-like illness; however, TOSV can cause severe neurological disease. Within the framework of the European Climate Monitoring and Decision Support Framework for Sand Fly-borne Diseases (CLIMOS) project, this study reports the molecular detection of sand fly-borne phleboviruses over 2 years of entomological surveillance in southern Portugal, aiming to characterize their genetic diversity and geographic distribution. METHODS: Phlebotomine sand flies were collected using Centers for Disease and Control (CDC) miniature light traps between April and November of 2023 and 2024 in different regions of southern Portugal, including the Lisbon Metropolitan Area and the Algarve region. Additional collections were carried out in the Portalegre district between June and October 2024. After morphological identification, specimens were pooled according to species, sex, collection date, and location. Engorged females were analyzed individually. Molecular screening included a conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for pan-Phlebovirus detection and a real-time reverse transcription quantitative (RT-q)PCR for the specific detection of TOSV and SFSV. RESULTS: A total of 7719 sand flies were collected-4131 in 2023 (620 pools and 305 engorged females) and 3588 in 2024 (1062 pools and 393 engorged females). Phlebotomus perniciosus was the dominant species in both years and across all regions. Other identified species included Phlebotomus ariasi, Phlebotomus sergenti, Phlebotomus papatasi, and Sergentomyia minuta. Four Phlebovirus-positive pools were identified, all from P. perniciosus collected in the Algarve region-two in 2023 and two in 2024, including TOSV (n = 1), Alcube virus (n = 1), Phlebovirus strain PoSFPhlebV/21/2007 related to Massilia virus (n = 1), and Arrabida virus (n = 1) accordingly partial L segment sequence analysis. CONCLUSIONS: This study highlights the diversity and ongoing co-circulation of sand fly-borne phleboviruses in southern Portugal, emphasizing the need for surveillance and diagnostic efforts to encompass a broader range of Phlebovirus species. The consistent association of P. perniciosus with multiple viral species and locations reinforces its role as a key vector, warranting targeted vector-management strategies and inclusion in risk-prediction models.
Long-term efficacy of fluralaner (Exzolt) in Gallus gallus domesticus against epidemiologically relevant triatomines (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae): a potential complementary strategy for Chagas disease control.
Pereira LC, Pereira NS, da Silva DD … +16 more , de Sousa KM, Bezerra CF, Sanches JM, Bosnic LFV, Oliveira LGR, Brito CRDN, Gontijo NF, da Silva ANB, da Câmara ACJ, da Cunha Galvão LM, Nascimento MSL, Hamer GL, Galvão C, de Souza RCM, Pereira MH, Guedes PMM
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 42001160 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Chagas disease control relies primarily on vector control using pyrethroid insecticide sprays with residual action in domestic and peridomestic environments. However, the necessity for repeated applications a...
BACKGROUND: Chagas disease control relies primarily on vector control using pyrethroid insecticide sprays with residual action in domestic and peridomestic environments. However, the necessity for repeated applications and the development of pyrethroid resistance in some countries have undermined this strategy. Alternative control tools are needed, and host-targeted systemic insecticides offer an alternative approach by creating toxic blood meals for hematophagous vectors. In peridomestic settings, chickens are major blood meal sources for triatomines. This study evaluated the insecticidal activity of orally administered fluralaner (Exzolt) to chickens against six triatomine species of epidemiological relevance for the transmission of Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas disease, in Latin America: Rhodnius prolixus, Triatoma infestans, Triatoma dimidiata, Triatoma brasiliensis, Triatoma pseudomaculata and Panstrongylus megistus. METHODS: Sixteen non-breeding chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) were randomized by weight into four groups: group 1, untreated control (n = 4); group 2, treated with two doses of 0.5 mg/kg fluralaner/Exzolt® (n = 4); group 3, treated with two doses of 2.5 mg/kg fluralaner/Exzolt® (n = 4); group 4, treated with two doses of 5.0 mg/kg fluralaner/Exzolt® (n = 4). To assess fluralaner (Exzolt®) efficacy, chickens were exposed to blood feeding by triatomines at baseline (day 0) and 1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 35, 56 and 77 days post-treatment. Mortality was monitored daily for up to 7 days after each feeding. RESULTS: Treatment with 0.5, 2.5 and 5.0 mg/kg of Exzolt® resulted in 100% insecticidal activity in triatomines for up to 14, 21 and 28 days post-treatment, respectively. The 2.5 and 5.0 mg/kg doses produced comparable insecticidal activity, both superior than that observed at 0.5 mg/kg. CONCLUSIONS: Oral administration of fluralaner (Exzolt®) to chickens induces 100% insecticidal activity and maintains insecticidal efficacy against multiple triatomine species for up to 28 and 56 days post-treatment, respectively. These findings highlighting the potential of fluralaner as a complementary vector control strategy for Chagas disease in endemic areas.
Variance partitioning reveals contrasting random effect contributions to the density and species composition of malaria-transmitting mosquitoes in western Burkina Faso.
Hui TJ, Epopa PS, Millogo AA … +5 more , Yao FA, Koulmaga D, Noulin F, Diabate A, Burt A
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 42001154 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Spatial-temporal variation exists in the density and species composition of malaria-carrying mosquitoes, which will in turn influence the transmission of the disease. While there has been extensive research o...
BACKGROUND: Spatial-temporal variation exists in the density and species composition of malaria-carrying mosquitoes, which will in turn influence the transmission of the disease. While there has been extensive research on seasonality and other main drivers of the vector populations, the heterogeneity partitioned as random effects at various spatial-temporal scales is just as important but has not attracted the same attention. METHODS: To investigate the relative contributions of the between-house, between-village and between-year variations, as well as other house-level covariates such as inhabitant number and bed net usage on vector density and species composition, intensive pyrethroid spray catches (PSC) sampling was conducted across a 60-month period between 2012 and 2019 from four villages in the Sudano-Sahelian region of Burkina Faso. RESULTS: For density, measured by female Anopheles gambiae s.l. counts, our modelling showed that the between-house variation was the largest variance component, followed by the between-year then between-village variation, after accounting for seasonality and other covariates. Density increased with the number of inhabitants within a household but was uncorrelated with bed net presence. A subset of female mosquitoes was genotyped for species identification, and the composition of An. coluzzii and An. gambiae, the two dominant vectors in the region, varied markedly across villages without an overall trend. The between-village variance contributed up to 76% of the total random variation in species composition, followed by the between-year variance. The between-house variation was statistically insignificant. Neither household size nor bed net usage had any impact on species composition. CONCLUSIONS: Interestingly, the between-house component of variation was the largest contributor when measuring mosquito density, but it was the least important for species composition. For between-village variation, the converse was found. Together with the baseline entomological data, the variance components help parameterise potential field trials for novel vector control programmes and monitoring.
Targeting protein-protein interactions in Plasmodium: from asexual replication to sexual development.
Tang J, Tang W, Xie Y … +6 more , Yang W, Luo X, Yu Y, He B, Liu C, Li Z
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 42001110 · Full text
BACKGROUND: Malaria, a life-threatening protozoan disease caused by Plasmodium parasites and transmitted by mosquitoes, remains a global public health crisis. The 2025 World Malaria Report recorded 282 million malaria ca...
BACKGROUND: Malaria, a life-threatening protozoan disease caused by Plasmodium parasites and transmitted by mosquitoes, remains a global public health crisis. The 2025 World Malaria Report recorded 282 million malaria cases and 610,000 deaths in 2024, with global elimination goals severely hampered by widespread insecticide resistance and the rapid spread of artemisinin-resistant parasites. Conventional antimalarials primarily target enzyme catalytic sites, which are vulnerable to resistance via single point mutations with minimal parasite fitness cost. In contrast, core Plasmodium biological processes-from erythrocyte invasion and intracellular survival to host-to-vector transmission-are tightly governed by conserved protein-protein interactions. These interfaces have far lower mutational potential, require cooperative compensatory mutations for resistance emergence, and offer high species selectivity, making them promising next-generation drug targets. METHODS: This review systematically synthesizes recent structural and functional advances in key multi-subunit complexes driving the Plasmodium life cycle, with a focus on asexual stages of P. falciparum and sexual development of P. berghei and P. yoelii. We integrate insights from cryo-electron microscopy, proximity-dependent biotinylation technologies, and advanced genetic manipulation, and critically evaluate emerging PPI-targeted therapeutic and transmission-blocking intervention strategies. RESULTS: We delineate the architecture and druggable vulnerabilities of core PPI networks mediating merozoite invasion, intraerythrocytic nutrient uptake, metabolic homeostasis, transcriptional regulation, proteostasis, and merozoite egress in asexual stages. We further dissect PPI networks governing sexual commitment, gametogenesis, fertilization, and mosquito transmission, and summarize the preclinical and clinical development progress of PPI-targeted neutralizing antibodies, vaccine candidates, and small-molecule inhibitors. CONCLUSION: Targeting key Plasmodium PPI interfaces is a robust, evolutionarily constrained strategy for developing resistance-resilient antimalarials. Technological advances are overcoming the "undruggable" challenges of PPI targets, and this approach holds immense potential to address antimalarial resistance and advance global malaria elimination.
Forgotten in the tropics: research on Culex mosquitoes is overshadowed in malaria and dengue-endemic regions.
Abdi AA, Almeida R, Harris T … +3 more , Magalhaes T, Juarez JG, Hamer GL
Parasit Vectors · 2026 Apr · PMID 41998788 · Full text
BACKGROUND: In many countries where mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue are endemic, the research community focuses on studying the mosquito vectors of these diseases in the Anopheles and Aedes genera, res...
BACKGROUND: In many countries where mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria and dengue are endemic, the research community focuses on studying the mosquito vectors of these diseases in the Anopheles and Aedes genera, respectively. In these settings, other mosquito taxa, including Culex spp. and associated pathogens, appear less frequently in published studies. Although the field widely recognizes that several mosquito taxa and pathogen systems are understudied in several regions, few studies have quantified these patterns. METHODS: We conducted a systematic literature review of mosquito-related studies published in 2010 and 2020 to test the hypothesis that the proportion of mosquito publications on Culex spp. would be higher in countries that are non-endemic for malaria and dengue. Studies were identified through PubMed and Web of Science using "Country + mosquito" keyword searches, screened by inclusion/exclusion criteria, and categorized by endemicity (malaria-endemic, dengue-endemic, both, and non-endemic). We summarized mosquito genera per study and compared their reporting frequencies using generalized linear mixed models (beta-binomial likelihood) adjusted for year and GDP per capita. RESULTS: After screening 10,834 unique publications, 1,389 met inclusion criteria. The average number of mosquito genera reported per study was significantly higher for non-endemic countries compared with countries endemic for malaria and dengue. Publications including data on Culex spp. mosquitoes were significantly higher for non-endemic countries (64.5%) compared with malaria endemic (30.2%) and dengue endemic (34.2%) countries. Between 2010 and 2020, reporting of Aedes spp. increased, whereas reporting of Anopheles decreased, consistent with changing global research emphasis over the decade, including the 2015-2017 Zika emergence and continued dengue expansion. CONCLUSIONS: These results indicate that the presence of human-amplified mosquito-borne pathogens (e.g., human malaria and dengue) is associated with lower reporting of Culex in the published field-collection literature and with comparatively less published attention to Culex-associated zoonotic pathogens. A step to help resolve this neglect is for researchers to include additional mosquito community data when publishing malaria and dengue vector studies. These findings can help the research and public health community to allocate attention on multiple vector-borne disease threats, proportional to the respective human health burden.
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