Using insect-specific viruses to prevent the transmission of arthropod-borne viruses

There is an increased threat of disease caused by viruses transmitted by mosquitoes because of changes in climate and land use. In general, two types of viruses are found in mosquitoes: viruses transmitted to humans and
animals that can cause disease, like West Nile virus, and viruses that only infect the mosquito, called insect-specific viruses. Some insect-specific viruses may be beneficial because they can prevent mosquitoes from
transmitting viruses that cause disease. The proposed research aims to determine the effectiveness of insect-specific viruses at blocking harmful virus infection in mosquitoes, and to learn more about West Nile virus
infections in Canadian mosquitoes. These studies will support a new strategy to use insect-specific viruses to prevent mosquitoes from transmitting dangerous viruses and develop more tools for surveillance and prevention
of future outbreaks in Canada.

Faculty Supervisor:

Ian Patterson

Student:

Partner:

Entomogen Inc.

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Brock University

Program: