Midgut immune profiling and functional characterization of Aedes aegypti ABC transporter gene(s) using systemic and local bacterial challenges

Abstract

The mosquito midgut is crucial for digestion and immune interactions. It produces several immune factors that protect the organ from invading pathogens and can limit their propagation. Studies on mosquito midgut transcriptome following pathogen exposure have revealed the presence of non-canonical immune genes, such as ABC transporters, whose function in insect immunity remains unexplored. Therefore, this study focuses on identifying and characterising the immune role of ABC transporters in the midgut of Aedes aegypti, a primary arboviral vector.