Current Status of Omics Studies Elucidating the Features of Re-Productive Biology in Blood-Feeding Insects

Simple Summary Insect vectors are responsible for transmitting a range of diseases, leading to significant mortality rates annually. Their behavior and physiology can undergo shifts due to complex molecular interactions during mating and feeding. In this review, we provide an exhaustive overview of the current omics knowledge-spanning genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics-across various vector species. We highlight potential molecular targets for vector control and outline the advancements and gaps in our understanding, which could pave the way for innovative and effective strategies to curb disease transmission.Abstract Female insects belonging to the genera Anopheles, Aedes, Glossina, and Rhodnius account for the majority of global vector-borne disease mortality. In response to mating, these female insects undergo several molecular, physiological, and behavioral changes. Studying the dynamic post-mating molecular responses in these insects that transmit human diseases can lead to the identification of potential targets for the development of novel vector control methods. With the continued advancements in bioinformatics tools, we now have the capability to delve into various physiological processes in these insects. Here, we discuss the availability of multiple datasets describing the reproductive physiology of the common blood-feeding insects at the molecular level. Additionally, we compare the male-derived triggers transferred during mating to females, examining both shared and species-specific factors. These triggers initiate post-mating genetic responses in female vectors, affecting not only their reproductive success but also disease transmission.

Automated summary

Insect vectors play a crucial role in transmitting diseases, and understanding the molecular interactions that affect their behavior and physiology is important for developing effective strategies to control disease transmission. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge in omics-based research on vector species, highlighting potential targets for vector control and discussing advancements and gaps in our understanding. Insights into the post-mating molecular responses in female vectors can contribute to the development of novel vector control methods.