Advances in the genetic characterization of the malaria vector, Anopheles funestus, and implications for improved surveillance and control

Abstract

Anopheles mosquitoes present a major public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa; notably, as vectors of malaria that kill over half a million people annually. In parts of the east and southern Africa region, one species in the Funestus group, Anopheles funestus, has established itself as an exceptionally dominant vector in some areas, it is responsible for more than 90% of all malaria transmission events. However, compared to other malaria vectors, the species is far less studied, partly due to difficulties in laboratory colonization and the unresolved aspects of its taxonomy and systematics. Control of An. funestus is also increasingly difficult because it has developed widespread resistance to public health insecticides. Fortunately, recent advances in molecular techniques are enabling greater insights into species identity, gene flow patterns, population structure, and the spread of resistance in mosquitoes. These advances and their potential applications are reviewed with a focus on four research themes relevant to the biology and control of An. funestus in Africa, namely: (i) the taxonomic characterization of different vector species within the Funestus group and their role in malaria transmission; (ii) insecticide resistance profile; (iii) population genetic diversity and gene flow, and (iv) applications of genetic technologies for surveillance and control. The research gaps and opportunities identified in this review will provide a basis for improving the surveillance and control of An. funestus and malaria transmission in Africa.

Updates on traditional methods for combating malaria and emerging Wolbachia-based interventions

“…Supported by four mechanisms (metabolic, target site, cuticular, and behavioral resistance), this phenomenon involves changes in resistant vectors that can affect Plasmodium parasite development. While molecular diagnostics have been developed to detect target-site resistance, metabolic resistance is complex but has seen recent progress in identifying key detoxification enzymes ( Odero et al., 2023 ). Additionally, other physiological and behavioral changes in mosquito populations contribute to resistance, but their impact on insecticide efficacy remains poorly understood.…”

Revolutionizing Malaria Vector Control: The Importance of Accurate Species Identification through Enhanced Molecular Capacity

“…An amalgam of standard procedures and a battery of modern immunology and molecular testing methods can now be applied on individual specimens to produce essential biological and epidemiological knowledge [14]. Since identifying malaria vector mosquitoes accurately is crucial for eradi-cating and controlling the disease, enhanced molecular capacity for species identification is critical for improved surveillance and control of malaria vectors, especially in this era of intensified drive toward malaria elimination [15,16]. The biology and behavioral pattern, particularly the feeding habit of mosquitoes, make them unique vectors for the Plasmodium parasite; as such, precise characterization of vectors causing disease is an initial step in implementing an effective control program.…”

“…An amalgam of standard procedures and a battery of modern immunology and molecular testing methods can now be applied on individual specimens to produce essential biological and epidemiological knowledge [14]. Since identifying malaria vector mosquitoes accurately is crucial for eradicating and controlling the disease, enhanced molecular capacity for species identification is critical for improved surveillance and control of malaria vectors, especially in this era of intensified drive toward malaria elimination [15,16].…”