The microbiome of mosquito saliva and its impact on virus transmission
Supervisors:
Dr Daniella Lefteri, University of Glasgow
Dr Eva Heinz, University of Strathclyde
Prof Steven Sinkins, University of Glasgow
Summary:
Mosquito transmitted viral diseases, such as dengue virus and zika, have a profound effect on human health globally and the climate crisis is making these diseases into an increasing threat by allowing their spread to wider locations. There are limited treatments and vaccines available for these viruses. One successful prevention strategy has been the introduction of the endosymbiont Wolbachia to virus transmitting mosquitoes which results in an efficient block of virus transmission to humans.
Transmission of these viruses to humans occurs when a mosquito bites and deposits its saliva into the skin along with the virus. The saliva itself is key for successful infection to occur as it is made up of a cocktail of molecules and proteins that change the immunological responses in the skin. These immunological responses include oedema formation (swelling caused by liquid formation at the bite site) and the recruitment of immune cells.
Other factors within the mosquito that could impact viral transmission include the mosquito microbiota. Whilst studies have shown that mosquito salivary glands can contain a diverse microbiome, the effect of microbiota on viral transmission and how the microbiome interacts with the vector, the viruses and the mammalian host remain unclear. The endosymbiotic bacterium Wolbachia, is also present within the salivary glands.
As part of this studentship the student will use a range of molecular biology techniques as well as mosquito insectary skills including infections of mosquitoes, dissections and saliva collections, field collections of mosquitoes and bioinformatics.