Article
Environmental Sciences
Louisa A. Messenger, Nancy S. Matowo, Chad L. Cross, Mohamed Jumanne, Natalie M. Portwood, Jackline Martin, Eliud Lukole, Elizabeth Mallya, Jacklin F. Mosha, Robert Kaaya, Oliva Moshi, Bethanie Pelloquin, Katherine Fullerton, Alphaxard Manjurano, Franklin W. Mosha, Thomas Walker, Mark Rowland, Manisha A. Kulkarni, Natacha Protopopoff
Summary: Insecticide resistance among malaria vectors is a global problem that poses a threat to disease control efforts. This study aims to assess the long-term effects of dual-active-ingredient long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) on insecticide resistance by measuring phenotypic and genotypic insecticide-resistance profiles among wild Anopheles collected over 3 years. The findings suggest that certain interventions have better performance in protecting against malaria and managing insecticide resistance.
LANCET PLANETARY HEALTH
(2023)
Article
Ophthalmology
Sean Mullany, Henry Marshall, Tiger Zhou, Daniel Thomson, Joshua M. Schmidt, Ayub Qassim, Lachlan S. W. Knight, Georgina Hollitt, Ella C. Berry, Thi Nguyen, Minh-Son To, David Dimasi, Abraham Kuot, Joshua Dubowsky, Rhys Fogarty, Michelle Sun, Luke Chehade, Shilpa Kuruvilla, Devaraj Supramaniam, James Breen, Shiwani Sharma, John Landers, Stewart Lake, Richard A. Mills, Mark M. Hassall, Weng O. Chan, Sonja Klebe, Emmanuelle Souzeau, Owen M. Siggs, Jamie E. Craig
Summary: The study identified significant gene expression differences in patients with PEX, with upregulation of genes associated with viral gene expression pathways and downregulation of cell adhesion protein transcripts. This comprehensive transcriptomic resource sheds light on novel and previously recognized pathogenic pathways in PEX.
INVESTIGATIVE OPHTHALMOLOGY & VISUAL SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Mycology
Cassandra L. Ettinger, Talieh Ostovar, Mark Yacoub, Steven Ahrendt, Robert H. Hice, Brian A. Federici, Jason E. Stajich
Summary: Species of the phylum Blastocladiomycota, including the genus Coelomomyces, are understudied and little is known about their genomics. To address this, researchers generated draft-level genomes and annotations for C. lativittatus and demonstrated their utility in transcriptome analysis. They found that the C. lativittatus transcriptome is complex and dynamic, with differentially expressed genes and enriched GO terms across different life stages. The genomes and transcriptomes reported here provide valuable resources for understanding the biology of early-diverging fungal lineages.
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Charles S. Wondji, Jack Hearn, Helen Irving, Murielle J. Wondji, Gareth Weedall
Summary: The study found that cytochrome P450 genes were the predominant over-expressed detoxification genes in the resistant strain, with high expression of CYP6P9a and CYP6P9b. Additionally, other P450 genes related to pyrethroid resistance were also over-expressed in the resistant strain. This research provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms of resistance in Anopheles funestus and can help in developing strategies to manage resistance in Africa.
G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS
(2022)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Bernard Abong'o, John E. Gimnig, Diana Omoke, Eric Ochomo, Edward D. Walker
Summary: This study evaluated the impact of eave screening on mosquito densities in rural villages in western Kenya. The results showed that installing eave screening can significantly reduce the indoor occurrence of Anopheles and Culex mosquito species. The majority of house owners expressed their willingness to permanently install eave screening, but training is needed. The community acceptance was high, but education and mobilization may be necessary.
Editorial Material
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Sam Jones
Summary: Gene-drive technology in mosquitoes is advancing, yet unanswered questions remain before its deployment as a malaria-fighting technique.
Editorial Material
Parasitology
Francesco Baldini, Mafalda Viana
Summary: It is unclear how malaria mosquitoes in the Sahel region persist during the dry season and rebound quickly at the onset of rains. Recent research by Faiman and colleagues suggests that aestivation, a dormancy mechanism, is a major strategy for the mosquitoes' persistence and could be targeted for vector control.
TRENDS IN PARASITOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Biology
Markus J. Sommer, Sooyoung Cha, Ales Varabyou, Natalia Rincon, Sukhwan Park, Ilia Minkin, Mihaela Pertea, Martin Steinegger, Steven L. Salzberg
Summary: The development of three-dimensional protein structure prediction methods has provided new opportunities for research on genomes and proteomes. By utilizing computational predictions of protein structures, it is possible to identify the functional protein product among multiple gene isoforms. In this study, we evaluated over 230,000 isoforms of human protein-coding genes using protein structure predictions, and identified several isoforms with more confidently predicted structures and potentially superior function compared to the canonical isoforms in the latest human gene database. We demonstrated the potential of protein structure prediction as a genome annotation tool and provided a resource of protein structures for better understanding the function of human genes and their isoforms.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Doreen J. Siria, Roger Sanou, Joshua Mitton, Emmanuel P. Mwanga, Abdoulaye Niang, Issiaka Sare, Paul C. D. Johnson, Geraldine M. Foster, Adrien M. G. Belem, Klaas Wynne, Roderick Murray-Smith, Heather M. Ferguson, Mario Gonzalez-Jimenez, Simon A. Babayan, Abdoulaye Diabate, Fredros O. Okumu, Francesco Baldini
Summary: This study presents a rapid and cost-effective surveillance method for monitoring malaria vectors. By using the spectra of mosquito cuticle, the method can simultaneously identify the species and age class of the vectors. With a deep transfer learning model, it is able to predict the age of new populations and detect the impact of control interventions on mosquito populations.
NATURE COMMUNICATIONS
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Adebayo Victor Akeju, Titus Adeniyi Olusi, Iyabo Adepeju Simon-Oke
Summary: Molecular identification and wing variation were studied among female An. Gambiae complex and An. funestus group mosquitoes in Ondo State, Nigeria. The study found morphological variations in the wing character and identified two types of wings in the An. Gambiae complex population. Molecular analysis revealed that An. gambiae s.s. represented the majority of the mosquito population, followed by An. arabiensis. Anopheles leesoni was the only member of the An. funestus group identified in the study area.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Pora Kim, Hua Tan, Jiajia Liu, Haeseung Lee, Hyesoo Jung, Himanshu Kumar, Xiaobo Zhou
Summary: The study introduces FusionGDB 2.0, a database with updated functional annotations of fusion genes, which is crucial for understanding genomic breakage context and developing therapeutic strategies. FusionGDB 2.0 provides comprehensive information on human fusion genes and their characteristics, making it a valuable resource for diverse human genomic studies.
NUCLEIC ACIDS RESEARCH
(2022)
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Ekaterina Ilgisonis, Nikita Vavilov, Elena Ponomarenko, Andrey Lisitsa, Ekaterina Poverennaya, Victor Zgoda, Sergey Radko, Alexander Archakov
Summary: The study compared different transcriptome analysis platforms to determine the optimal strategy for reliable RNA transcriptome data analysis, ultimately recommending the combination of Illumina RNASeq and MinION nanopore technologies. This combination significantly reduced false-positive detection of low-copy transcripts and ensured complete coverage of all genes.
FRONTIERS IN GENETICS
(2021)
Article
Infectious Diseases
Polius G. Pinda, Dickson S. Msaky, Letus L. Muyaga, Issa H. Mshani, Rukiyah M. Njalambaha, Japhet Kihonda, Hamis Bwanaly, Halfan S. Ngowo, Emmanuel W. Kaindoa, Lizette L. Koekemoer, Fredros O. Okumu
Summary: This study investigated the relationships between the biological age, distance from aquatic habitats and pyrethroid resistance status of Anopheles funestus mosquitoes in south-east Tanzania, and examined how such relationships may influence malaria transmission and control.
Article
Parasitology
Emilie S. Ngongang-Yipmo, Magellan Tchouakui, Benjamin D. Menze, Leon M. J. Mugenzi, Flobert Njiokou, Charles S. Wondji
Summary: This study investigated the efficacy of different brands of LLINs against pyrethroid-resistant mosquitoes and their post-exposure effect. The results showed that standard bednets had reduced efficacy against resistant mosquitoes in the field, but still induced delayed mortality in exposed populations. The study also highlighted the importance of using new-generation nets that do not solely rely on pyrethroids.
PARASITES & VECTORS
(2022)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Lucia Fernandez Montoya, Mara Maquina, Helena Marti-Soler, Ellie Sherrard-Smith, Celso Alafo, Mercy Opiyo, Kiba Comiche, Beatriz Galatas, Silvie Huijben, Lizette L. Koekemoer, Shune Oliver, Francois Maartens, Dulcisaria Marrenjo, Nelson Cuamba, Pedro Aide, Francisco Saute, Krijn P. Paaijmans
Summary: Indoor residual spraying (IRS) has been analyzed and a new method to calculate its efficacy has been proposed in a malaria elimination demonstration project in southern Mozambique. The study found that while the coverage of IRS campaigns was high, the protection was not optimal for the entire malaria transmission season and varied across different wall types.
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Jack Hearn, Carlos S. Djoko Tagne, Sulaiman S. Ibrahim, Billy Tene-Fossog, Leon M. J. Mugenzi, Helen Irving, Jacob M. Riveron, Gareth D. Weedall, Charles S. Wondji
Summary: This study investigates the molecular basis of metabolic resistance to pyrethroids in Anopheles funestus, a major malaria vector. The researchers used a multi-omics approach and functional validation to identify a cytochrome P450, CYP9K1, as a major driver of resistance. The study also identified other genes and variants associated with resistance and suggests their potential use in designing field-applicable markers for tracking resistance in Africa-wide.
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Magellan Tchouakui, Leon M. J. Mugenzi, Murielle J. Wondji, Micareme Tchoupo, Flobert Njiokou, Charles S. Wondji
Summary: Understanding the fitness cost of metabolic resistance in malaria vectors is crucial for effective resistance management. This study shows that a structural variant in genes involved in insecticide resistance leads to reduced fecundity and slower development in resistant mosquitoes. Additionally, the cumulative impact of multiple resistance genes exacerbates these effects. However, in an insecticide-free environment, susceptible individuals have a higher proportion, leading to restoration of susceptibility.
Article
Microbiology
Calmes Ursain Bouaka Tsakeng, Tito Tresor Melachio Tanekou, Steve Feudjio Soffack, Inaki Tirados, Cedrique Noutchih, Flobert Njiokou, Jude Daiga Bigoga, Charles Sinclair Wondji
Summary: This study provides an inventory of tsetse bacterial communities in Cameroon and explores their possible associations with trypanosome establishment in Glossina palpalis palpalis. The results show significant differences in microbiome diversity and composition among tsetse species and between teneral and non-teneral flies, or between flies displaying or not displaying mature trypanosome infections. Some bacteria are associated with trypanosome maturation in tsetse flies and could be further investigated for potential vector control tools.
Article
Microbiology
Benjamin D. Menze, Leon M. J. Mugenzi, Magellan Tchouakui, Murielle J. Wondji, Micareme Tchoupo, Charles S. Wondji
Summary: Malaria remains a major public health concern in Africa. Metabolic resistance in major malaria vectors such as An. funestus is jeopardizing the effectiveness of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) to control malaria. Experimental hut trials revealed that cytochrome P450-based resistance significantly reduces the efficacy of permethrin-only nets compared to PBO-based nets. The findings highlight the importance of PBO nets in areas with P450-mediated resistance to pyrethroids.
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Jack Hearn, Jacob M. Riveron, Helen Irving, Gareth D. Weedall, Charles S. Wondji
Summary: Leucine-rich repeat proteins and antimicrobial peptides are important components of the innate immune response in Anopheles mosquitoes. The APL1 gene in Anopheles funestus exhibits high levels of genetic diversity, and the diversity of other innate immunity genes may be driven by positive or balancing selection. The expression of the APL1 gene is correlated with a more open chromatin structure and enhanced gene conversion.
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Arnaud Tepa, Jonas A. Kengne-Ouafo, Valdi S. Djova, Magellan Tchouakui, Leon M. J. Mugenzi, Rousseau Djouaka, Constant A. Pieme, Charles S. Wondji
Summary: The main malaria vector Anopheles gambiae in a pesticide-driven agricultural hotspot in Cameroon has developed resistance to multiple insecticides, leading to a loss in the efficacy of control interventions.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Alvine Christelle Kengne Fokam, Laurentine Sumo, Mohamed Bagayan, Hugues Clotaire Nana-Djeunga, Thomas Kuete, Gabriella S. Ondoua Nganjou, Murielle Carole Tchami Mbagnia, Linda Djune-Yemeli, Charles Sinclair Wondji, Flobert Njiokou
Summary: This study assessed the toxicity of Niclosamide on different developmental stages of snail populations. The results showed that the susceptibility of snails varied among species and populations, and Niclosamide exhibited significant lethal effects on certain snail populations.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH
(2022)
Article
Entomology
Borel Djiappi-Tchamen, Mariette Stella Nana-Ndjangwo, Elysee Nchoutpouen, Idene Makoudjou, Idriss Nasser Ngangue-Siewe, Abdou Talipouo, Marie Paul Audrey Mayi, Parfait Awono-Ambene, Charles Wondji, Timoleon Tchuinkam, Christophe Antonio-Nkondjio
Summary: The emergence/re-emergence of arboviruses diseases including dengue, chikungunya, and yellow fever is a serious public health concern in Cameroon. Vector surveillance, including the assessment of Aedes species distribution through different collection methods, is crucial for prevention strategies. A study was conducted in and around the city of Yaounde, Cameroon, using ovitraps, Biogent Sentinel traps, and sweep nets. Results revealed a high infestation level of Aedes species and emphasized the need for regular surveillance and control to prevent outbreaks.
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Yvan Fotso-Toguem, Billy Tene-Fossog, Leon M. J. Mugenzi, Murielle J. Wondji, Flobert Njiokou, Hilary Ranson, Charles S. Wondji
Summary: The polymorphisms of CYP6M2 and CYP6P4 were analyzed to detect potential resistance markers in Anopheles coluzzii and Anopheles gambiae. The study found significant overexpression of CYP6M2 and CYP6P4 in resistant mosquitos, and a lower diversity in the upstream region of CYP6P4 potentially associated with resistance.
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Leon M. J. Mugenzi, Theofelix A. Tekoh, Sulaiman S. Ibrahim, Abdullahi Muhammad, Mersimine Kouamo, Murielle J. Wondji, Helen Irving, Jack Hearn, Charles S. Wondji
Summary: Insecticide resistance in vector species populations is posing a threat to the effectiveness of insecticide-based interventions against malaria. This study identified the overexpression of certain metabolic cytochrome P450 genes in resistant Anopheles funestus populations, which confers resistance to both pyrethroid and carbamate insecticides. Understanding the molecular basis of insecticide resistance is crucial for the development of suitable interventions.
Article
Microbiology
Fleuriane Metissa Djondji Kamga, Leon M. J. Mugenzi, Magellan Tchouakui, Maurice Marcel Sandeu, Claudine Grace Tatsinkou Maffo, Maximilienne Ascension Nyegue, Charles S. S. Wondji
Summary: This study investigates the association between a specific endosymbiont, Asaia spp., and pyrethroid resistance in malaria vectors. The presence of Asaia was found to be higher in mosquitoes with resistance markers, indicating a possible correlation. Furthermore, the abundance of Asaia was correlated with the resistance phenotype at different concentrations of deltamethrin.
Article
Microbiology
Marcel Tapsou Baina, Abel Lissom, Naura Veil Assioro Doulamo, Jean Claude Djontu, Dieu Merci Umuhoza, Jacques Dollon Mbama-Ntabi, Steve Diafouka-Kietela, Jolivet Mayela, Georges Missontsa, Charles Wondji, Ayola Akim Adegnika, Etienne Nguimbi, Steffen Borrmann, Francine Ntoumi
Summary: This study compares the genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum strains in rural and urban areas of the Republic of Congo after the introduction of artemisinin-based combination therapy. The results show higher genetic diversity and multiplicity of infection in the rural setting, influenced by season and participant clinical status.
Article
Infectious Diseases
Tatiane Assatse, Magellan Tchouakui, Leon Mugenzi, Benjamin Menze, Daniel Nguiffo-Nguete, Williams Tchapga, Sevilor Kekeunou, Charles S. Wondji
Summary: The susceptibility of Anopheles funestus mosquitoes to neonicotinoids was evaluated across Africa, and diagnostic doses of acetamiprid and imidacloprid were established. The study revealed that populations of An. funestus in Africa are susceptible to neonicotinoids, indicating the potential for using this insecticide class to control malaria transmission. However, the presence of cross-resistance calls for regular monitoring of resistance in the field.
TROPICAL MEDICINE AND INFECTIOUS DISEASE
(2023)
Article
Entomology
Oumou Kalsom Gueye, Abdoulaye Niang, Mouhamed Bassir Faye, Abdoulaye Kane Dia, Amblat Ali Ahmed, Ousmane Sy, Frederic Tripet, Lassana Konate, Ibrahima Dia, Charles Sinclair Wondji, Oumar Gaye, Ousmane Faye, Abdoulaye Diabate, El Hadji Amadou Niang
Summary: In Senegal, there is a clear difference in the mating swarms of An. coluzzii and An. gambiae, the malaria vector species, with no hybridization observed. The study reveals that while they do not hybridize, they exhibit distinct swarming behaviors. However, a high hybridization rate is still found in the hybridization zones, indicating the need for further extensive studies.
JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Francis N. Nkemngo, Lymen W. Raissa, Daniel N. Nguete, Cyrille Ndo, Jerome Fru-Cho, Flobert Njiokou, Samuel Wanji, Charles S. Wondji
Summary: Molecular surveillance of malaria is essential for detecting and tracking parasite resistance to anti-malarial drugs. This study conducted molecular techniques to determine the prevalence and genetic diversity of Plasmodium falciparum and Plasmodium malariae resistance markers in humans and mosquitoes in Cameroon. The results showed high prevalence of malaria and the emergence of drug-resistant alleles. The findings highlight the importance of continued surveillance and intervention strategies to prevent the spread of resistance.
ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS AND CHEMOTHERAPY
(2023)