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Targeting the reproductive biology of the malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae: from laboratory studies to field applications

Objective

Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes are the major vectors of malaria, a disease with devastating consequences for
human health. Novel methods for controlling the natural vector populations are urgently needed, given the
evolution of insecticide resistance in mosquitoes and the lack of novel insecticidals. Understanding the
processes at the bases of mosquito biology may help to roll back malaria. In this proposal, we will target
mosquito reproduction, a major determinant of the An. gambiae vectorial capacity. This will be achieved at
two levels: (i) fundamental research, to provide a deeper knowledge of the processes regulating reproduction
in this species, and (ii) applied research, to identify novel targets and to develop innovative approaches for
the control of natural populations. We will focus our analysis on three major players of mosquito
reproduction: male accessory glands (MAGs), sperm, and spermatheca, in both laboratory and field settings.
We will then translate this information into the identification of inhibitors of mosquito fertility. The
experimental activities will be divided across three objectives. In Objective 1, we will unravel the role of the
MAGs in shaping mosquito fertility and behaviour, by performing a combination of transcriptional and
functional studies that will reveal the multifaceted activities of these tissues. In Objective 2 we will instead
focus on the identification of the male and female factors responsible for sperm viability and function.
Results obtained in both objectives will be validated in field mosquitoes. In Objective 3, we will perform
screens aimed at the identification of inhibitors of mosquito reproductive success. This study will reveal as
yet unknown molecular mechanisms underlying reproductive success in mosquitoes, considerably increasing
our knowledge beyond the state-of-the-art and critically contributing with innovative tools and ideas to the
fight against malaria.

Call for proposal

ERC-2010-StG_20091118
See other projects for this call

Host institution

UNIVERSITA DEGLI STUDI DI PERUGIA
EU contribution
€ 1 500 000,00
Address
PIAZZA DELL UNIVERSITA 1
06123 Perugia
Italy

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Region
Centro (IT) Umbria Perugia
Activity type
Higher or Secondary Education Establishments
Principal investigator
Flaminia Catteruccia (Prof.)
Administrative Contact
Flaminia Catteruccia (Prof.)
Links
Total cost
No data

Beneficiaries (1)