From Tucson to Genomics and Transgenics: The Vector Biology Network and the Emergence of Modern Vector Biology

摘要

The research enterprise is often charged with responding to emerging scientific needs and opportunities involving important public health issues. The establishment of the Vector Biology Network (VBN) by The MacArthur Foundation to address critical scientific, research, and human resource needs in vector biology is a model of how to respond to such a charge efficiently and effectively. When the Network was formed in 1989, the resurgence of vector-borne diseases, including malaria and dengue, had revealed critical research and training needs in vector biology. Major knowledge gaps in vector molecular biology and pathogen transmission limited development of new approaches for vector and disease control. The loss of vector biologists/medical entomologists complicated control of these diseases. Members of the VBN, an international consortium of research laboratories, collaborated in the development and application of modern molecular and genetic approaches in vector biology and in the training of a new cadre of scientists capable of developing and applying modern tools to combat these diseases. The VBN exploited the expertise and resources of the consortium institutions, and exceeded all of its milestones, including: development of molecular and genomic approaches in vector biology; genetic transformation of insect vectors; characterization of vector immune systems; identification of molecular and biological bases of vector competence; and exploitation of identified vulnerabilities to interfere with pathogen transmission. The VBN recruited many established scientists from other fields and trained a new generation of leaders in vector biology. Most importantly, the VBN participated in and helped catalyze a remarkable renaissance in vector biology/medical entomology.