N.O. (Niels) Verhulst: The role of skin bacteria in the attractiveness of humans to mosquitoes

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9 Dec 2010 11:00
Unit: Laboratory of Entomology
Location: Aula, building 362, Gen. Foulkesweg 1, Wageningen
Organisation: Wageningen University
Promotor: prof.dr. M. Dicke (Entomology)
Promotor: prof. dr.ir. W. Takken

 Bacteria play an important role in the production of human body odour. The principle goal of this thesis was to understand the role of volatile compounds produced by human skin bacteria in the attraction of humans to malaria mosquitoes. The attractiveness of 48 individuals to mosquitoes was determined and bacterial samples were taken from the human skin. The results showed that the bacterial composition on the skin determines an individual’s attractiveness to mosquitoes. Individuals with a higher abundance of bacteria on their skin were more attractive to malaria mosquitoes, whereas individuals with a higher diversity of skin microbiota were less attractive. The volatiles released by the skin bacteria were identified and tested for their attractiveness in Kenya. Blends of these compounds can be used in traps to reduce the number of malaria mosquitoes. Research on the role of skin bacteria in the host-seeking behaviour and host preference of biting insects may lead to a better understanding of vector-host interactions and contribute to the fight against vector-borne diseases.
Title thesis: The role of skin microbiota in the attractiveness of humans to the malaria mosquito Anopheles gambiae Giles
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