Mosquito neuropeptides: controlling the physiology of a deadly disease vector
Keywords:
Neuropeptide, endocrine disruptor, Aedes aegyptiAbstract
Aedes aegypti mosquito is the primary global vector of dengue, Zika and chikungunya. Historically, its control has relied on use of insecticides; however, these have led to resistance in the mosquitoes and ecological damage. In light of this, National Institute of Public Health (INSP) is investigating ecological alternatives. This article describes an innovative control proposal based on the use of allatotropin (AT), a neuropeptide naturally found in many insects, but with specific amino acid sequence in mosquitoes. The aim is to increase the concentration of AT with a synthetic, to destabilize its physiology without affecting the environment or human health.
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