![]() Further, it employs, as a gene delivery mechanism, bacterial flora native to the host vector. This approach attempts to decrease pathogen transmission without adverse effects on vectors themselves. The genetically altered symbionts are then re-introduced into the host vector where expression of engineered molecules affects the host's ability to transmit the pathogen, i.e. In this strategy, bacterial flora native to disease-transmitting vectors are isolated and genetically transformed in vitro to export molecules that interfere with pathogen transmission. Paratransgenesis is a “Trojan Horse” approach to control of disease transmission. Keywords: Paratransgenesis, Chagas disease, triatomine bugs, visceral leishmaniasis, sand flies, microbiology, risk assessment, horizontal gene transfer Introduction In preparation for eventual field use, we are actively engaged in risk assessment studies addressing the issue of horizontal gene transfer from the modified bacteria to environmental microbes. Several effector molecules, including antimicrobial peptides and highly specific single chain antibodies, are currently being explored for their anti-parasite activities in these two systems. We have successfully utilized this strategy to reduce carriage rates of Trypanosoma cruzi, the causative agent of Chagas disease, in the triatomine bug, Rhodnius prolixus, and are currently developing this methodology to control the transmission of Leishmania donovani by the sand fly Phlebotomus argentipes. These genetically altered microbes are re-introduced back to the insect where expression of the engineered molecules decreases the host's ability to transmit the pathogen. In the paratransgenic strategy, symbiotic or commensal microbes of host insects are transformed to express gene products that interfere with pathogen transmission. File import instruction AbstractĬonventional methodologies to control vector borne diseases with chemical pesticides are often associated with environmental toxicity, adverse effects on human health and the emergence of insect resistance. Select the file that you have just downloaded and select import option Reference Manager (RIS). Paratransgenic Control of Vector Borne Diseases. Hurwitz I, Fieck A, Read A, Hillesland H, Klein N, Kang A, Durvasula R.
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