Identification of genes for insecticide resistance in the lymphatic filariasis vector Culex quinquefasciatus. (360G-Wellcome-103269_Z_13_Z)

Culex quinquefasciatus (Diptera: Culicidae) is a pantropical pest and urban vector of Bancroftian filariasis. Studies to detect incipient resistance and the underlying mechanisms in field populations of Culex to public health insecticides is very important to design effective strategies to control both lymphatic filariasis and malaria occurred. In the present project we will exploit the Culex quinquefasciatus whole genome microarray already available to investigate range of resistance mechanis ms and type of cross resistance are involved in the resistance of Cx. quinquefasciatus against insecticidal classes licensed for public health. Here, we will: (i) Describe the distribution of insecticide resistance in the Cx. quinquefasciatus from selected sites throughout Benin, ii) Apply a whole transcriptome microarray to identify genes associated with resistance to deltamethrin (used for ITN) and bendiocarb (used for IRS), iii) To use in vitro expression systems to confirm that the candidate genes identified from interact and/or metabolize the insecticide used.