Interactions between mosquito genetic background and Wolbachia strain affect dengue virus blocking and fitness in South American populations of Aedes aegypti
Year: 2026
Type: dataset
Abstract: : Wolbachia-based biocontrol is an emerging vector control strategy for reducing dengue virus (DENV) transmission by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. This strategy relies on Wolbachia’s ability to inhibit virus replication within a mosquito- a phenomenon known as pathogen blocking. However, the success of this approach may be influenced by mosquito genetic background, Wolbachia strain, and virus strain, as well as interactions with the environment. As releases expand globally, understanding how genetic diversity from all three organisms interact to affect blocking and fitness is central to designing methods for sustained biocontrol efficacy across diverse geographic settings.METHODSWe used a genotype-by-genotype-by-genotype (G × G × G) experimental design to evaluate how mosquito population (Brazil, Paraguay, Peru), Wolbachia strain (wMel, wAlbB), and DENV serotype (DENV-1, DENV-2) influence viral blocking and mosquito fitness. DENV infection was assessed in two tissues (salivary glands and carcass) across multiple time points. We also evaluated mosquito fecundity, development rate, and survival, and integrated them into a model of population growth (rmax) to assess fitness costs.FINDINGSAcross all mosquito populations, wMelM conferred stronger and more consistent DENV blocking than wAlbB, with enhanced suppression particularly against DENV-2. Blocking efficacy varied by mosquito population, with the Brazilian line showing the strongest and the Peruvian line the weakest blocking. In contrast, wAlbB-infected mosquitoes consistently exhibited higher fitness compared to wMelM, although fitness outcomes were context-dependent and varied by population and trait measured. Wolbachia infection had minimal impact on fecundity, but effects on survival and development rate differed across mosquito backgrounds.INTERPRETATIONOur findings demonstrate that Wolbachia-mediated pathogen blocking and associated fitness effects are shaped by mosquito genetic background, Wolbachia strain, and DENV serotype. These results underscore the need for local evaluations prior to field deployment and suggest that tailored strategies may improve the long-term success of Wolbachia-based dengue control programs.
Source: Figshare
Institution: The University of Melbourne
Language: English
Subfield: Insect Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7155077775