Vertical transmission of Ross River virus in mosquito vectors

Summary Using recombinant alphaviruses expressing fluorescent proteins, this project will look at aspects of the immune response in mosquitoes and the possibility that Ross River virus is transmitted vertically down the generations. Tools and techniques being used will include recombinant viruses, microscopy, cell culture and insect work.

Project Details

Alphaviruses such as Ross River virus, chikungunya and Semliki Forest virus are transmitted between susceptible vertebrate hosts by mosquito vectors. In vertebrates, these viruses initiate acute infections characterised by high virus production and brain or joint disease. In contrast, when a mosquito becomes infected, the virus establishes a persistent infection, there is no apparent effect on mosquito fitness and the mosquito transmits virus for the rest of its life.  Using recombinant alphaviruses expressing fluorescent proteins, this project will look at aspects of the immune response in mosquitoes and the possibility that virus is transmitted vertically down the generations. Tools and techniques being used will include recombinant viruses, microscopy, cell culture and insect work.