vector-host olfactory interactions in sylvatic and domestic dengue transmission environments.

Interactions between () species and non-human primate (NHP) and human hosts govern the transmission of the pathogens, dengue, zika, yellow fever and chikungunya viruses. Little is known about mosquito olfactory interactions with these hosts in the domestic and sylvatic cycles where these viruses circulate. Here, we explore how the different host-derived skin odours influence mosquito responses in these two environments.

Independent and interactive effect of plant- and mammalian- based odors on the response of the malaria vector, Anopheles gambiae.

Several studies have shown that odors of plant and animal origin can be developed into lures for use in surveillance of mosquito vectors of infectious diseases. However, the effect of combining plant- and mammalian-derived odors into an improved lure for monitoring both nectar- and blood-seeking mosquito populations in traps is yet to be explored. Here we used both laboratory dual choice olfactometer and field assays to investigate responses of the malaria vector, Anopheles gambiae, to plant- and mammalian-derived compounds and a combined blend derived from these two odor sources.