Abstrakt
Laboratory colonies of phlebotomine sand flies are necessary for the experimental studies of their biology, behaviour and mutual relations with disease agents and for the testing of new methods of vector control. Colonies are of particular value for screening insecticides but they are also indispensable in controlled observations on the physiology and behaviour of sand flies, all of which are subjects of high priority for international projects, including Horizon 2020.
Colonized sand flies are used as live vector models in a diverse array of research projects directed toward control of leishmaniasis and other sand fly-associated diseases. Historically, labour-intensive maintenance and low productivity have limited their usefulness for research but, however, with growing interest in leishmaniasis research, rearing techniques are being developed and refined.
Main aim of this project is to optimize and standardize methods for mass rearing of Phlebotomus perniciosus. This species is the main vector of canine leishmaniases in Europe and mass-reared sand flies are used, in collaboration with Charles River Laboratories Ireland Limited, for testing insecticides and repellents on dogs.