Analysing the genomic basis of vectorial capacity and insecticide resistance in Culex species using reference genomes and population genomics
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Did you miss this month’s ERGA Plenary meeting! Maria José Ruiz López presented her work on analysing the genomic basis of vectorial capacity and insecticide resistance in Culex species using reference genomes and population genomics.
Abstract
Understanding the genomic basis of vectorial capacity and insecticide resistance is essential for improving mosquito-borne disease control. This case study carried out as part of the BGE project focused on Culex species in a West Nile virus hotspot in southern Spain. To carry out the study we combined the analyses of newly generated reference genomes for Culex perexiguus, Culex laticinctus, Culex theileri, and Culex modestus with population genomics of two species, Culex perexiguus and Culex pipiens. High-quality reference genomes resolved taxonomic relationships within Culex. Despite largely conserved chromosomal architecture across species, substantial interspecific variation was observed in chemosensory gene families (OBPs, ORs, GRs). Whole-genome resequencing revealed contrasting population patterns between the two species studied. While Culex pipiens shows clear genetic structure associated with ecotypes (pipiens and molestus), habitat and Wolbachia infection, Culex perexiguus appears largely panmictic. Structural variants, including chromosomal inversions enriched for chemosensory and detoxification genes, likely contribute to adaptation and vectorial traits. Importantly, we detected several mutations associated to insecticide resistance, including organophosphates and pyrethroids. In some cases, these mutations were more frequent in the Cx. pipiens molestus ecotype and in urban areas. These results were shared with relevant stakeholders demonstrating how genomics can inform targeted, evidence-based vector control strategies within a One Health framework.
Speaker
María José Ruiz López is a researcher at the Doñana Biological Station (CSIC) and is affiliated with the CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP). Her research integrates genomics, ecology, and epidemiology within a One Health framework to understand the dynamics of infectious diseases and their relationship with environmental change. Here recent research focuses on vector-borne diseases, such as West Nile virus, as well as on population genomics of mosquitoes to investigate vector ecology, evolution, and transmission patterns. She also works on the development of genomic tools for epidemiological surveillance and public health.
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