Understanding how male mosquitoes are determined
Official title: Sex determination and the sex-determining locus in aedine mosquitoes
Funded at Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ · NIH-10888398 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes decide whether mosquitoes are male or female, focusing on the yellow fever mosquito, and the goal is to find new ways to manage mosquito populations that spread diseases like dengue and chikungunya.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project start | July 14, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $738,552 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI179056-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10888398 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals living in areas affected by mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and chikungunya.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in regions impacted by these diseases may not see direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic mechanisms that determine the sex of mosquitoes, specifically focusing on the yellow fever mosquito, Aedes aegypti. It examines a key male-determining factor called Nix, which influences the development of male characteristics by altering the splicing of certain genes. By studying the M locus, where Nix is located, researchers aim to uncover insights into the evolution of sex determination in mosquitoes, which are significant vectors for diseases like dengue and chikungunya. The findings could lead to innovative strategies for controlling mosquito populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for controlling mosquito populations and reducing the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding genetic factors in insect populations, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
Blacksburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tu, Zhijian Jake — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Tu, Zhijian Jake
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.