Vector Microbiomes and Pathogen Transmission: Exploring New Frontiers in Tick- and Mosquito-Borne Disease Control

Mosquitoes and ticks, as the most representative vector organisms globally, transmit the majority of vector-borne diseases, presenting a central challenge to public health. In recent years, research on their microbiomes has garnered significant attention. These endosymbiotic microbial communities, comprising bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, serve as critical factors influencing vector environmental adaptation, physiology, metabolism, and pathogen transmission capacity. However, significant gaps remain in our understanding of the pathogens (including bacteria, viruses, and protozoa) carried by mosquitoes and ticks, particularly concerning their epidemiological characteristics, genetic diversity, and spatial distribution. Furthermore, the complex interaction networks between endosymbionts and pathogens, as well as the dynamic transmission and pathogenic mechanisms of pathogens within their vector hosts, remain at the forefront of current research.This study aims to systematically elucidate the structure, dynamics, and functions of tick and mosquito microbiomes, as well as their impact on vector physiology and pathogen transmission capacity. It also seeks to characterize the epidemiology, transmission patterns, and multi-pathogen co-infection features of the pathogens they carry, while further unraveling the complex interaction mechanisms among vectors, microbes, and pathogens.The topic welcomes submission of Original Research, Review, Mini Review, Hypothesis and Theory, Opinion and Perspective focusing on: 1. Structure and dynamics of vector microbiomes and their impact on transmission competence2. Response of microbial communities to physiological processes such as blood feeding and their modulation of host physiology and metabolism3. Epidemiology, evolution, and diversity of vector-borne pathogens4. Influence of ecological, environmental, and host factors on vector populations and disease transmission dynamics5. Microbiome-vector-pathogen interaction mechanisms6. Sustainable control strategies based on microbiomes and endosymbionts7. Innovative surveillance and diagnostic technologies for vector-borne diseases Topic editors: Houshuang Zhang, Min Zheng Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/83399/vector-microbiomes-and-pathogen-transmission-exploring-new-frontiers-in-tick--and-mosquito-borne-disease-control