Different profiles and epidemiological scenarios: past, present and future.

The multiplicity of epidemiological scenarios shown by Chagas Disease, derived from multiple transmission routes of the aetiological agent, occurring on multiple geo-ecobiosocial settings determines the complexity of the disease and reveal the difficulties for its control. From the first description of the link between the parasite, the vector and its domestic habitat and the disease that Carlos Chagas made in 1909, the epidemiological scenarios of the American Trypanosomiasis has shown a dynamic increasing complexity. These scenarios changed with time and geography because of new understandings of the disease from multiple studies, because of policies change at the national and international levels and because human movements brought the parasite and vectors to new geographies.

Biological attributes of the kissing bug Triatoma rubrofasciata from Vietnam.

Background: Triatoma rubrofasciata is the only kissing bug species distributed globally. In the Americas, this species transmits the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, responsible for Chagas disease. The presence of T.

Holocentric chromosome evolution in kissing bugs (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae): diversification of repeated sequences.

Background: The analysis of the chromosomal and genome evolution in organisms with holocentric chromosomes is restricted by the lack of primary constriction or centromere. An interesting group is the hemipteran subfamily Triatominae, vectors of Chagas disease, which affects around 6 to 7 million people worldwide. This group exhibits extensive variability in the number and chromosomal location of repeated sequences such as heterochromatin and ribosomal genes.

Epidemiological status of kissing-bugs in South East Asia: A preliminary assessment.

Kissing-bugs (Triatominae) are being increasingly reported as a biting nuisance in SE Asia, with severe bite reactions sometimes leading to anaphylactic shock. In addition, they pose a risk for vector-borne transmission of trypanosomiasis, with potential diagnostic difficulties due to the range of trypanosome species in the region. Here, we review available information about Triatominae in Asia, and present additional comparisons using morphometry, cytogenetics, and new DNA sequence data, to clarify their relationship with each other and with the better known American species.

The rising importance of Triatoma rubrofasciata.

The migration of invasive vector species has contributed to the worldwide extension of infectious diseases such as dengue (Aedes aegypti) and chikungunya (Aedes albopictus). It is probably a similar behaviour for certain vectors of Chagas disease which allowed it to become a continental burden in Latin America. One of them, Triatoma rubrofasciata has also been spreading throughout the tropical and subtropical world.

Can piperonyl butoxide enhance the efficacy of pyrethroids against pyrethroid-resistant Aedes aegypti?

Background: Pyrethroid resistance can be considered the main threat to the continued control of many mosquito vectors of disease. Piperonyl butoxide (PBO) has been used as a synergist to help increase the efficacy of certain insecticides. This enhancement stems from its ability to inhibit two major metabolic enzyme systems, P450s and non-specific esterases, and to enhance cuticular penetration of the insecticide.