Talk:Application of Wolbachia in Invertebrate Vector Control

Comment by Anthony Alexander

The concept of using this alpha-proteobacteria to fight vector-born infectious diseases is extremely interesting. The reduction of vector-born infections causing death by up to 90% as suggested would be a great accomplishment. I think you do a good job of providing a substantial amount of information regarding the spread, impact and abilities of Wolbachia pipientis, however the information provided does leave me wanting more. For instance, the vertical transfer of Wolbachia is emphasized, but is there any insight as to how this infection originated? Also, what is the pathway of horizontal transmission? It is stated a number of times and in a number of ways that Wolbachia essentially is selective for females and is passed on through females. I find this surprising that this would have evolved and can be used in fighting vector-born diseases when in most cases, the females of species like mosquitoes are the ones that bight and infect humans. This leads me to my last question, which is, is the development/cause of early death in carriers the only way in which Wolbachia could be able to prevent the spread of vector-born diseases? Good job, your page has sparked a greater interest for this area of research for me.