MiGen Analysis: Microbiome and genome analyses of medically relevant hematophagous arthropods

Global trade networks, travel activities as well as climatic changes are altering distribution patterns of vector species worldwide, raising the risk of vector-borne diseases. Blood-feeding arthropods, e.g. mosquitoes, are vectors for a variety of infectious diseases caused by bacteria, protozoa, metazoa or viruses. Genomes of medically relevant vector species are sequenced and the microbiomes of native and invasive mosquito species in Germany are characterized using metagenomics. An environmental DNA (eDNA) approach is being tested for a more rapid and cost-effective sampling of invasive mosquitoes.

The overarching aims are to better understand the biology and distribution of disease vectors and their pathogens in Germany and evaluate results for potential vector control strategies.