Targeting Aedes aegypti Metabolism with Next-Generation Insecticides

Abstract

Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of dengue virus (DENV), zika virus (ZIKV), and other emerging infectious diseases of concern. A key disease mitigation strategy is vector control, which relies heavily on the use of insecticides. The development of insecticide resistance poses a major threat to public health worldwide. Unfortunately, there is a limited number of chemical compounds available for vector control, and these chemicals can have off-target effects that harm invertebrate and vertebrate species. Fundamental basic science research is needed to identify novel molecular targets that can be exploited for vector control. Next-generation insecticides will have unique mechanisms of action that can be used in combination to limit selection of insecticide resistance. Further, molecular targets will be species-specific and limit off-target effects. Studies have shown that mosquitoes rely on key nutrients during multiple life cycle stages. Targeting metabolic pathways is a promising direction that can deprive mosquitoes of nutrition and interfere with development. Metabolic pathways are also important for the virus life cycle. Here, we review studies that reveal the importance of dietary and stored nutrients during mosquito development and infection and suggest strategies to identify next-generation insecticides with a focus on trehalase inhibitors.

Implications of mosquito metabolism on vector competence

“…, 2016; Conway et al. , 2023). Recent studies have provided valuable insights into how arboviruses selectively affect the metabolic pathways of mosquito vectors (Colpitts et al.…”

“…Flaviviruses, including DENV, ZIKV, JEV, and WNV, are intracellular pathogens that rely on the host's metabolism to produce offspring virions, similar to Plasmodium parasites (Liu et al, 2016;Conway et al, 2023). Recent studies have provided valuable insights into how arboviruses selectively affect the metabolic pathways of mosquito vectors (Colpitts et al, 2011;Chotiwan et al, 2018;Siriphanitchakorn et al, 2022).…”