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. 2016 Jun-Jul;110(4-5):164-72.
doi: 10.1080/20477724.2016.1211475. Epub 2016 Aug 11.

Advancing vector biology research: a community survey for future directions, research applications and infrastructure requirements

Alain Kohl  1 , Emilie Pondeville  1 , Esther Schnettler  1 , Andrea Crisanti  2 , Clelia Supparo  2 , George K Christophides  2 , Paul J Kersey  3 , Gareth L Maslen  3 , Willem Takken  4 , Constantianus J M Koenraadt  4 , Clelia F Oliva  5 , Núria Busquets  6 , F Xavier Abad  6 , Anna-Bella Failloux  7 , Elena A Levashina  8 , Anthony J Wilson  9 , Eva Veronesi  10 , Maëlle Pichard  11 , Sarah Arnaud Marsh  11 , Frédéric Simard  12 , Kenneth D Vernick  11   13
Affiliations

Advancing vector biology research: a community survey for future directions, research applications and infrastructure requirements

Alain Kohl et al. Pathog Glob Health. 2016 Jun-Jul.

Abstract

Vector-borne pathogens impact public health, animal production, and animal welfare. Research on arthropod vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks, sandflies, and midges which transmit pathogens to humans and economically important animals is crucial for development of new control measures that target transmission by the vector. While insecticides are an important part of this arsenal, appearance of resistance mechanisms is increasingly common. Novel tools for genetic manipulation of vectors, use of Wolbachia endosymbiotic bacteria, and other biological control mechanisms to prevent pathogen transmission have led to promising new intervention strategies, adding to strong interest in vector biology and genetics as well as vector-pathogen interactions. Vector research is therefore at a crucial juncture, and strategic decisions on future research directions and research infrastructure investment should be informed by the research community. A survey initiated by the European Horizon 2020 INFRAVEC-2 consortium set out to canvass priorities in the vector biology research community and to determine key activities that are needed for researchers to efficiently study vectors, vector-pathogen interactions, as well as access the structures and services that allow such activities to be carried out. We summarize the most important findings of the survey which in particular reflect the priorities of researchers in European countries, and which will be of use to stakeholders that include researchers, government, and research organizations.

Keywords: Community survey; Research infrastructures; Research requirements; Vector biology; Vector-borne diseases; Vector–pathogen interactions.

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