Roadmap for Vector Transmission Control (VTC)

What are we trying to achieve and why? What is the problem we are trying to solve?

Increase knowledge of vector genetics for:

• species identification of vectors
• designing genetic control methods of vectors
• identify vaccine targets
• to control pathogen replication in and/or transmission from
  the vector

What are the scientific and technological challenges (knowledge gaps needing to be addressed)?

• Sequence, assemble and annotate vector genomes
• Edit genes to reverse resistance to chemical controls and make the vector susceptible again
• Find mutations inducing resistance in ticks for host pathogens.
• Compare gene homologues and expression levels among species of ticks for those gene products that could serve as vaccine antigens
• Lack of knowledge about the impact of environmental factors on gene spread: While gene drive systems have been used successfully in laboratory settings, it is not clear how they will behave in natural environments. Further research is needed to determine how environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and host behaviour may impact gene spread in mosquito populations.

What approaches could/should be taken to address the research question?

Generate enough genomes of vectors that carry pathogens of concern that they can be compared.
Identification of SNPs or other polymorphisms that convey resistance to chemical controls

What else needs to be done before we can solve this need?

Our understanding of tick biology is still limited, which makes it difficult to identify suitable vaccine targets. There is a need for more research on tick physiology, genetics, and immunology to identify potential vaccine targets.

Existing knowledge including successes and failures

• Look at already elucidated genomes of other arthropods
• Genetically modified tick (CRISPR-CAS) gene that affects length of hypostome – allowing monitoring
• Complete tick genomes for several species that are well annotated