Understanding the genetics of the Asian tiger mosquito and its ability to spread diseases
Official title: Haplotype-resolved genome assemblies and chromosomal rearrangements in arboviral vector Aedes albopictus
Funded at Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ · NIH-10737646 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the Asian tiger mosquito to understand how its genes help it survive in different climates, which could help us find better ways to control these mosquitoes and prevent the diseases they spread, like dengue and Zika.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 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 | November 8, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $187,903 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AI174052-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10737646 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals living in regions affected by mosquito-borne diseases, particularly dengue, chikungunya, and Zika.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in areas where Aedes albopictus is prevalent may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the Asian tiger mosquito, Aedes albopictus, which is known for transmitting diseases like dengue, chikungunya, and Zika. The project aims to create detailed genome assemblies for different strains of this mosquito to explore how genetic adaptations allow it to thrive in various climates. By examining chromosomal rearrangements, the researchers hope to uncover the genetic factors that contribute to the mosquito's ability to spread these diseases globally. This work could lead to better strategies for controlling mosquito populations and preventing outbreaks.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for controlling mosquito populations and reducing the incidence of arboviral diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding the genetics of other mosquito species and their role in disease transmission, 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: Sharakhova, Maria — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Sharakhova, Maria
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.