Work

Microbiota-mediated blocking of plasmodium falciparum sporozoites in Anopheles: a systematic review

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Introduction The development of Plasmodium falciparum sporozoites in the mosquito, Anopheles , is essential for malaria transmission. Despite the unsurprising fact that the mosquito microbiota has become a major factor in the modulation of the competence of mosquitoes, the specific types of microbial taxa and mechanisms affecting the development of the sporozoite are not well synthesized. This systematic review brings together and critically evaluates the available evidence to understand the role of microbiota in the development of P. falciparum sporozoites in Anopheles mosquitoes with a specific focus on the salivary gland microbiome. Methods A systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases (2000-2026) was conducted, and 41 studies met the inclusion criteria. Extraction and synthesis of data were conducted in the form of a narrative in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Risk of bias was assessed using SYRCLE’s tool for animal studies. Results The Wolbachia effects varied by strain and species: wAlbB caused a 3.4- to 3.7-fold decrease in sporozoites, wAnga-Mali had a negative correlation with 95% presence, and there was no correlation for wAnmo in An. moucheti . All African countries (1–57% prevalence) were consistently affected by Microsporidia MB , with no fitness costs. Serratia ureilytica Su_YN1 inhibited ~98% of parasites using outer membrane vesicles loaded with AmLip, which targets parasites via the phosphatidylcholine scavenging pathway. 93% transmission blocking was obtained in mouse models with engineered symbionts (transgenesis + paratransgenesis). Discussion The mosquito microbiota plays a significant, but strain-, species-, and context-dependent role in the development of P. falciparum sporozoites. The Microsporidia and Serratia species are promising candidates for field deployment, offering sustainable, environmentally friendly complements to chemical insecticides for malaria vector control.

Source: Frontiers in Insect Science

DOI: 10.3389/finsc.2026.1958166

Authors: Celestina O. Olafusi, Mercy E. Tebamifor, Tobiloba I. Bejapade, Israel S. Afolabi, Olubanke O. Ogunlana

Institution: Covenant University

Language: English

Topic: Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences

Subfield: Insect Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,077