Characterization of different Aedes aegypti population in Florida for interfering with chikungunya virus transmission

Our ability to assess risk and prevent mosquito-borne disease in Florida is hindered by lack of knowledge about mechanistic causes of differential vector competence. We need to understand vector-virus interactions that will lead to practical approaches for rapid risk assessment of disease in Florida. Our primary objective is to evaluate the vector competence of Florida Aedes aegypti for chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and determine if there is a geographic component that influences genes involved in CHIKV competence. We propose using RNA-Seq to detect genes that interact with CHIKV and potentially interfere with infection.