The Biology of Arthropod Disease Vectors

PATH 6112

The goal of this course is to introduce students to arthropods that are vectors for a wide variety of infectious agents that cause human diseases. The unique biology of hematophagous arthropods that has evolved to facilitate the coexistence between the vectors, pathogens, and the vertebrate host will be illustrated in both lectures and practical sessions. The curriculum will build upon a general introduction to arthropods. Then, using specific examples, the processes of infection, development, and transmission of pathogens will be discussed. This will include vector behaviors involved in location of the host, physiological adaptations to facilitate blood feeding and digestion, and factors that influence the vector-pathogen relationship. Options for controlling vector-borne diseases will be discussed from a historical perspective, with a consideration of how modern molecular approaches might be used in the future.


Path 6112 Syllabus

Week

Instructor

Lecture Title

Date

1

 

Nikos Vasilakis

Introduction to Arthropods and Vector borne diseases

1/6/2021

2

Donald Bouyer

Fleas and Lice

1/13/2021

3

Robert Tesh

Sand flies

1/20/2021

4

David Walker

Biology of Ticks

1/27/2021

5

Bruno Travi

Trypanosoma Cruzi

2/3/2021

6

Scott Weaver

Mosquitoes:  concepts associated with pathogen transmission

2/10/2021

7

Jere McBride

Ticks and Ehrlichia: concepts associated with pathogen transmission

2/17/2021

8

Nikos Vasilakis

Field Studies

2/24/2021

9

Laura Dickson

Vector Microbiome

3/3/2021

10

Donald Bouyer

Vector Biocontainment

3/10/2021

11

Nikos Vasilakis

Quasispecies and pathogen transmission

3/17/2021

12

Laura Dickson

Arthropod Control

3/24/2021

12

 

Exam Questions (essay-type) released

3/25/2021

13

 

Written Final Exam due

4/8/2021

14

 

Grades posted

4/20/2021