AUTHOR=Wu Yang , Wu Jie , Wu Qipeng , Cai Huiling , Hu Jia , Lin Zhiwei , Liao Ruyan 

TITLE=The making of a dangerous vector: factors shaping the vector competence of Aedes mosquitoes

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology

VOLUME=Volume 15 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/cellular-and-infection-microbiology/articles/10.3389/fcimb.2025.1718737

DOI=10.3389/fcimb.2025.1718737

ISSN=2235-2988

ABSTRACT=Aedes mosquitoes are among the world’s most significant arbovirus vectors, transmitting pathogens such as dengue, chikungunya, and Zika viruses. However, key species like Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus exhibit notable differences in their vector competence, a trait of critical epidemiological importance. Vector competence is a complex phenotype, intrinsically defined by the efficiency with which a virus can overcome key tissue barriers, primarily the midgut and salivary glands. This review synthesizes the current understanding of the multifactorial drivers behind this variation through a comparative analysis of intrinsic determinants—including the vector’s genetic background, innate immunity, co-evolution with the virus, tissue barriers, and gut microbiota—and extrinsic factors, such as climatic conditions and anthropogenic pressures. By dissecting these mechanisms, this review provides a critical reference for assessing the epidemic risks of mosquito-borne diseases and aims to inform the development of more precise, next-generation vector control strategies.