I. Mateescu & S. Lequime. 2025. J. Med. Entomol. 62(1), 19–28 https://doi.org/10.1093/jme/tjae134
Abstract [shortened]. An arthropod’s vectorial capacity summarizes its disease transmission potential. Studies have shown that mosquito-borne pathogens may alter important vectorial capacity traits of their mosquito vectors, thus directly impacting their transmission and epidemic potential. Here, we compile and discuss the evidence supporting dengue-mediated changes in Aedes aegypti (L.) and evaluate whether the observed effects represent an evolved trait manipulation with epidemiological implications. Dengue infection appears to manipulate essential traits that facilitate vector–host contact, such as locomotor activity, host-seeking, and feeding behavior, but the underlying mechanisms are not understood. Conversely, life-history traits relevant to vector population dynamics, such as survival, oviposition, and fecundity, appear to be negatively impacted by dengue virus. However, methodological disparities among studies render comparisons difficult and limit the ability to reach well-supported conclusions. This highlights the need for more standardized methods for research into changes in virus-mediated traits.
Note: This review paper focusses on dengue virus and aegypti, but may be relevant for other mosquito-borne arboviruses.