Advancing insect vector biology research: a community survey for future directions, research applications and infrastructure requirements

Abstract

BackgroundVector-borne pathogens impact public health and economies worldwide. It has long been recognized that research on arthropod vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks, sandflies and midges which transmit parasites and arboviruses to humans and economically important animals is crucial for development of new control measures that target transmission by the vector. While insecticides are an important part of this arsenal, appearance of resistance mechanisms is an increasing issue. Novel tools for genetic manipulation of vectors, use of Wolbachia endosymbiotic bacteria and other biological control mechanisms to prevent pathogen transmission have led to promising new intervention strategies. This has increased interest in vector biology and genetics as well as vector-pathogen interactions. Vector research is therefore at a crucial juncture, and strategic decisions on future research directions and research infrastructures will benefit from community input.\n\nMethodology/Principal FindingsA survey initiated by the European Horizon2020 INFRAVEC-2 consortium set out to canvass priorities in the vector biology research community and to determine key issues that should be addressed for researchers to efficiently study vectors, vector-pathogen interactions, as well as access the structures and services that allow such work to be carried out.\n\nConclusions/SignificanceWe summarize the key findings of the survey which in particular reflect priorities in European countries, and which will be of use to stakeholders that include researchers, government, and research organizations.\n\nAuthor SummaryResearch on arthropod vectors that transmit so-called arboviruses or parasites, such as mosquitoes, ticks, sandflies and midges is important for the development of control measures that target transmission of these pathogens. Important developments in this research area, for example vector genome sequencing, genome manipulation and use of transmission-blocking endosymbionts such as Wolbachia have increased interest in vector biology. As such, strategic decisions on research directions as well as research infrastructures will benefit from community input. A survey initiated by the European Horizon2020 INFRAVEC-2 consortium set out to investigate priorities in the vector biology research community as well as key issues that impact on research, and access to the structures and services that allow such studies to be carried out. Here we summarize the key findings of this survey, which in particular reflect priorities in European countries. The survey data will be of use to decision makers such as governments and research organizations, but also researchers and others in the field.