Overview
Our project for iGEM was driven by the urgent need to address the increasing threat posed by mosquito-borne pathogens, particularly in Europe where Aedes Albopictus (also known as the infamous tiger mosquito) [1] have become a significant menace. In recent years, the situation escalated to the point where 71 departments [2] in France were on high alert due to the mosquito-borne diseases they carry, including Dengue, CHIKV, ZIKA, and West Nile virus. These diseases not only pose a severe risk to public health but also have the potential to spark epidemics.
To address this growing problem, we embarked on a mission to develop an innovative machine capable of detecting pathogens within mosquitoes. Our goal was to create a seamless system that would not only identify these pathogens but also transmit crucial information directly to epidemiologists and researchers. This real-time data transmission would significantly enhance surveillance efforts and improve the control of potential pandemics.
In addition to our hardware solution, we also developed a cutting-edge software tool. This software was designed to streamline the process of designing Guide RNA for the SHERLOCK Technique, a powerful tool in molecular biology. By providing researchers with an efficient means of designing these sequences, we aimed to accelerate the development of diagnostic tests and therapies.
In addition to our hardware solution, we also developed a cutting-edge software tool. This software was designed to streamline the process of designing GuideRNA and TargetDNA sequences for the SHERLOCK Technique, a powerful tool in molecular biology. By providing researchers with an efficient means of designing these sequences, we aimed to accelerate the development of diagnostic tests and therapies.
Our overarching objective throughout this project was to benefit the common people who are most susceptible to these contagious diseases. Mosquito-borne illnesses have the potential to spread rapidly, akin to a wildfire, making early detection and effective control measures paramount [3].
To gain further insights and guidance for our project, we engaged in extensive discussions with renowned epidemiologists, Dr. Andrea Appolloni and Dr. Catherine Centre Sossah, based in Montpellier. Their expertise and feedback were invaluable in shaping our project and understanding how our innovations could contribute to controlling and preventing epidemic outbreaks.
Recognizing that public health awareness and science education are essential aspects of combating vector-borne disease transmission, we took an additional step. We designed and conducted a comprehensive survey to gauge public perspectives on the growing menace of mosquitoes and their ideas for tackling this issue. This information allowed us to tailor our project to the needs and concerns of the communities most affected by mosquito-borne diseases, thus enhancing the relevance and impact of our work.
In summary, our iGEM project was a multifaceted initiative aimed at mitigating the threat of mosquito-borne pathogens in Europe. Through the development of advanced technology, engagement with expert epidemiologists, and a commitment to public awareness and education, we sought to make a meaningful contribution to the surveillance and control of these diseases, ultimately benefiting the health and well-being of the general population.
As the old adage goes, "Better safe than sorry," our project underscores the importance of thorough preparation and planning to mitigate the impact of potential epidemics.
In addition to this we are in the process of developing an application designed to swiftly transmit critical information following the detection of a virus. This application aims to assist epidemiologists and researchers in making more informed decisions to effectively manage and control epidemic outbreaks.
In practice, our plan involves setting up mosquito traps and automating a system capable of detecting pathogens within mosquitoes. This system would then relay critical information directly to epidemiologists and researchers. On a larger scale, this information would be disseminated to researchers who can collaborate with government and regional authorities to devise scientific solutions and implement measures to control and prevent epidemic outbreaks.
Expert Interactions
“If the design of the automated pathogen detection device has been designed to be simple and easy to use, it will be used by a large number of people who will be trained over a short period of time.”
Key Insights
- An automatised tool is easy to use and more reproducible, it requires less training than a laboratory-made test only usable by laboratory technicians and researchers. Therefore it can be used by a larger number of people after a short training and would help to have a broader surveillance.
- If the tool permits the generation of diagnostic tests to detect active circulating pathogens in humans with clinical signs or in mosquito populations, with a greater sensitivity compared to a reference real time RT-PCR test, the alert of a circulating vector borne disease will be done more rapidly and the management of the mosquito populations that may be affected will be done earlier avoiding higher outbreaks.
- Training on how to use this tool and his limits are necessary to avoid misinterpretation of the data obtained.
- After validation of the tool with In vivo experiments , communication should be organized through a workshop to communicate among researchers in virology, epidemiology, community members and local health, human and animal health authorities.
Summary
Through the interview Dr. Centre- Sossah told us that an automatised device would help to reach broader audience after only a short training, compared to a laboratory-dependent device. If our tool can generate diagnostic tests that detect pathogens in humans and mosquitoes more sensitively than standard real-time RT-PCR tests, it will enable quicker disease alerts and early mosquito population management, reducing the risk of larger outbreaks. Early VBD (Vector-Borne Disease) alerts will enable faster decision-making by epidemiologists, enhancing control measures for impending outbreaks.
Year-round mosquito trapping is essential for comprehensive surveillance across large areas. Improved insect control methods are needed in VBD-infected regions with existing insect traps. Better scientific and general communication between medical professionals and epidemiologists/entomologists is crucial to prevent major outbreaks in human populations. Training is essential to ensure users understand the tool's capabilities and limitations, preventing data misinterpretation. After in vivo experiments validate the tool, a workshop should facilitate communication among virologists, epidemiologists, community members, and local health authorities. These experiments will also inform the maintenance requirements for non-specialist users, define training content, and establish a renewal process conducted remotely to ensure proper usage.
We started looking into the development of an automated tool for detecting the pathogens. We also collaborated with public health officials for better understanding and awareness about the tool.
Conclusion
This interview with Dr. Catherine Centre-Sossah has yielded valuable insights for our project. Consequently, we are now strategizing to establish a more structured implementation protocol and develop an automated device that streamlines the virus detection process for the layman.
Computational Epidemiologists,CIRAD (Centre for International Co-operation in Agricultural Research and Development)
“A reduction of time needed to detect viruses in vector population, reducing the pipeline of work”
Key Insights
- Data should be centralized to provide larger scaled pictures and validate results from the device. From the training point of view explain conditions of use of the device plus how to interpret sensibily.
- Anticipate an information flow from citizens and community members to local health authorities, which can then be relayed to scientists. Establish a feedback loop for confirmed or disproven cases.
- The device is expected to reduce the time required for virus detection in mosquito populations, streamlining surveillance efforts.
- It facilitates timely virus detection, enhancing disease surveillance capabilities. However, controlling diseases may remain challenging without prevalence level estimations.
- Implementation is likely to influence current disease surveillance practices and strategies used by epidemiologists and public health officials, allowing for better scenario planning for epidemic evolution
- Different groups, including researchers, epidemiologists, local health authorities, and community members, are expected to interact with and benefit from the technology.
Summary
Dr. Andrea Apolloni, a computational epidemiologist affiliated with CIRAD in Montpellier, provided lectures during our course, acquainting us with his significant contributions to the fields of epidemiological modeling and network science.In the interview with Professor Andrea Apolloni, several key insights emerged regarding the implementation of automated pathogen detection devices for mosquito-borne diseases. Notably, the technology is expected to significantly reduce the time required for virus detection within mosquito populations, offering a streamlined approach to disease surveillance.
This accelerated detection capability has the potential to enhance disease surveillance efforts on a larger scale by enabling the timely identification of virus circulation, which is crucial for effective response measures. Furthermore, the implementation of this technology is envisioned to contribute to the well-being of communities affected by vector-borne diseases by engaging them in citizen science initiatives and fostering local awareness of pathogen dynamics.
Professor Apolloni also highlighted the potential influence on current disease surveillance practices and strategies employed by epidemiologists and public health officials, allowing for improved scenario planning regarding epidemic evolution. Additionally, the introduction of this technology is expected to have downstream effects on public awareness, policy-making, and resource allocation. To ensure successful real-world implementation, considerations regarding data transmission, device maintenance, and training are essential, including centralized data management and comprehensive training covering device usage and data interpretation.
Incorporation into the project
and tech specialists
and efficiency
Medical Entomologist (PhD, HDR)
Research Director at the French National Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD) MIVEGEC Lab (IRD-CNRS- Montpellier University)
Key Insights
"Detection of pathogens in mosquitoes should improve surveillance of pathogen circulation by providing a early signals (even if no human or animal cases are detected) to help health authorities implement appropriate control and prevention measures (vector control, vaccination) to prevent or mitigate epidemics"
- Assessing pathogen transmission levels through mosquito surveillance provides critical insights into the risk of epidemics.
- Molecular characterization and identification of adaptive mutations in pathogens inform epidemic risk assessment.
- Globalization and increased human mobility contribute to the rapid spread of mosquito-borne diseases, underscoring the need for proactive surveillance.
- Effective mosquito surveillance systems can enhance overall global disease monitoring but require practical and cost-effective tools.
- Decision-making around data management should determine whether surveillance data should be handled at a local or central level, such as within the ARS(Agence Régionale de Santé or regional health authority) or the Ministry of Health.
Summary
In our interview with Dr. Christophe Paupy, a medical entomologist in Montpellier, several crucial insights emerged. Dr. Paupy emphasized the significance of detecting pathogens in mosquitoes as a means to enhance early surveillance, facilitating the prompt implementation of control measures such as vector control and vaccination to prevent and mitigate epidemics. This surveillance also aids in assessing the level of pathogen transmission, providing information about pathogen identity and risk assessment through molecular characterization and the presence of adaptive mutations. Furthermore, the interview underscored the role of globalization and increased human mobility in the rapid spread of mosquito-borne diseases, emphasizing the need for early detection to break transmission chains and minimize cases. While France boasts an efficient surveillance system primarily based on detecting cases in humans and animals, it was noted that some pathogens causing asymptomatic or mild infections may elude early detection, leading to delayed responses. Dr. Paupy also highlighted the importance of developing cost-effective and practical tools for global mosquito surveillance, raising questions about data management, including whether data should be managed locally or centrally, potentially within entities like the ARS or the Ministry of Health.
Incorporation into the project
can cause asymptomatic or mild infections.
Professor of Virology, University of Montpellier.
”Early detection of viruses circulating in their vectors could lead to more proactive measures in controlling these infections, especially through vector control.”
Key Insights
One key challenge in detecting arboviruses in mosquitoes is the need to deploy specific traps for targeted species at multiple locations over extended periods of time. Arboviruses exhibit varying transmission patterns, with some relying on mosquitoes and birds, while others can be directly transmitted among humans.Factors influencing virus spread include vector presence, environmental conditions, and the introduction of infected cases or hosts, highlighting the need for early and sensitive virus detection to inform control measures.Timely access to mosquito virus data is essential for implementing proactive measures, including vector control, in the fight against infections.
Summary
In the interview with Dr. Yannick Simonin, a Virology professor at the University of Montpellier, several key insights emerged regarding the challenges of detecting mosquito-borne pathogens and the importance of real-time pathogen information. Detecting arboviruses within mosquitoes presents multifaceted challenges, including the need for specific traps deployed across different locations for extended periods. The sensitivity of current detection tools can lead to a low number of positive identifications, even during periods of high viral circulation.
Dr. Simonin also highlighted the variability in viral propagation depending on the arbovirus type. Some viruses, like West Nile, primarily rely on mosquito-bird interactions, while others, such as Zika and dengue, involve human-to-human transmission via Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. Factors contributing to disease spread include vector presence, suitable temperature conditions for virus replication, and the presence of infected cases or birds. Access to real-time pathogen information was emphasized as a crucial tool for researchers and epidemiologists, enabling more proactive measures, including improved vector control and public awareness efforts, to mitigate the spread of mosquito-borne infections.
Incorporation into the project
ideas for mosquito trap designs, considering their effectiveness and suitability for
different geographical locations.
scientists to create IoT solutions that incorporate real-time tracking devices within the trap hardware.
This will enable rapid transmission of critical information.
the sensitivity of the mosquito traps, ensuring they can accurately detect and monitor mosquito-borne
pathogens.
for placing these traps, maximizing their potential in monitoring and controlling mosquito populations.
English and French Survey
We created a comprehensive survey to collect valuable insights from the general public regarding their understanding and perspectives on vector-borne diseases in their vicinity, as well as the perceived severity of communicable diseases transmitted by mosquitoes. To ensure broad participation and gather robust data, we translated our survey into French as well.
The survey findings underscore the significance of our project. They reveal a clear lack of awareness among the general population about vector-borne diseases and the need for an effective surveillance system. The data emphasizes the pressing demand for sustainable solutions to combat these diseases and improve overall public health.
You will find below the result of our English and French survey. For the display of the diagrams : English result are one the left, and French on the right.
How old are you?
En: Regarding the English respondents to our survey, 33.3% fell within the 18-30 age group, 32.3% belonged to the 31-45 age bracket, and 34.4% were aged 46 and above.
Fr: Most (58.5%) of our French respondents are aged between 18 and 30 years. Almost a third of them (27.7%) are older than 46 years old and a smaller part is between 31 and 45 years old.
What region do you come from (France)?
En: According to the survey results, the majority, comprising 95.8% of the respondents, were from the Occitanie region of France.
Fr: Given that we are located in Montpellier, the biggest proportion of answers came from Occitanie (69.2 %), 9.2 % are from Ile de France, and 7.7 % are from Grand Est. We also had answers from other regions, but they seem to be less represented.
Is it a village or a city?
En: The survey indicated that the majority of our respondents (86.5%) reside in urban areas or city landscapes.
Fr: 87.7 % of respondents come from cities, of which 83.3 % are from cities with a population more than 10000, and 16.7 % are from small towns. According to this data, only 12.3 % of them come from rural areas.
If you wrote "City" in the previous question, is it big or not ?
En/Fr: When respondents refer to urban landscapes or cities, they are typically describing populous areas with more than 10,000 residents.
How frequently do you encounter mosquitoes ?
En: According to the survey results, 46.9% of respondents encounter mosquitoes 1-5 times a day, 31.3% encounter them 5-10 times a day, and the remaining 21.9% experience mosquito attacks more than 10 times a day.
Fr: A major part (61.5 %) see mosquitoes from 1 to 5 times a day, 26.2 % of people encounter mosquitoes from 5 to 10 times a day, and 12.3 % of them face mosquitoes more than 10 times.
Do you experience any inflammation or itching after a sting?
En: The majority, 82.3%, experience inflammation and itching following a mosquito attack.
Fr: A substantial majority, comprising 76.9% of respondents, answered "yes," while 23.1% reported having none of these symptoms.
What protection methods do you use?
En: Among the respondents, 53.1% expressed a preference for personally eliminating mosquitoes, while 41.7% favored the use of repellent creams. Additionally, 26% reported using mosquito nets, 6.3% relied on screens, and a smaller percentage, 4.2%, employed fogging as a method of mosquito control.
Fr: In our survey, we found that certain methods of mosquito protection are more popular than others. For instance, the most widely adopted approach is manual mosquito elimination, with 52.3% of respondents favoring this method. Following closely behind is the use of spray methods, preferred by 41.8% of participants. Aroma protection, utilizing citrus or other essential oils, ranks as the next popular choice, garnering 33.8% of the respondents' votes. Electronic devices, at 21.8%, and mosquito nets, at 20%, also make up significant portions of the preferred methods. Additionally, some individuals opt for alternative measures such as pheromone traps, diffusers, or specialized clothing for protection. However, these methods are less commonly chosen, with only 1.5% of respondents indicating their use.
Do you know any of these diseases?
En: Out of the respondents, 41.7% are knowledgeable about Dengue, 31.3% are familiar with Chikungunya, 22.9% are aware of the Zika virus, and 26% have knowledge about most of these viruses.
Fr: In our survey, we observed varying levels of awareness regarding certain diseases. Dengue is the most widely recognized, with 36.9% of respondents having heard of it, closely followed by Chikungunya at 35.4%. Malaria and the Zika virus both have a recognition rate of 26.2%. Encouragingly, 18.5% of respondents are knowledgeable about all of these diseases. However, it's noteworthy that a considerable portion (30.8%) either has never heard of these diseases or can only recall a few of them (1.5%).
Have you ever been hospitalized due to a mosquito sting?
En/Fr: No one has been hospitalized after experiencing a mosquito attack.
Have you ever got any allergic reaction after mosquito attack?
En: Among the respondents, 87.5% did not report any health effects after a mosquito attack, while 12.5% did experience adverse effects. When asked about the nature of these adverse effects, 18.2% reported allergic reactions, 9.1% mentioned infections, another 9.1% had Chikungunya, and an additional 9.1% experienced inflammation.
Fr: A striking 95.4% of responses indicate that such hospitalization has never occurred in the past. However, it is worth noting that a few individuals have experienced allergic reactions, characterized by significant swelling around the mosquito bite, hardening, prolonged swelling, or the development of a raised plaque around the sting.
How worried are you about mosquitoes attack on the scale from 1 to 10?
En: When asked about their level of concern regarding the potential risks associated with mosquitoes on a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 indicates the least concern and 10 indicates high concern, the responses were as follows:
Fr: In terms of their level of concern :
How much are you bothered by mosquitoes on the scale from 1 to 10?
En: When asked to rate the overall nuisance of mosquitoes in their area on a scale of 1 to 10, the responses were as follows:
Fr: When considering respondents who have chosen the 7th level and higher, a significant 61.6% of them express that mosquitoes are indeed a bothersome issue.
Do you know where mosquitoes live and breed?
En: We also inquired whether respondents were aware of any mosquito breeding sites in their environment, and here's what they shared:
Fr: Approximately 49.2% of respondents claim to have no knowledge in this regard.However, a substantial portion can identify some common breeding sites for mosquitoes, including lakes, vases, watering cans, swimming pools, flower pots, sewers, and the river board (Le Lez in Montpellier). Moreover, some respondents mentioned specific locations such as ponds created by hunters and areas near Montpellier hospitals as potential breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Do you know any local initiative to fight mosquitoes?
En: We also inquired whether respondents were aware of any regional initiatives aimed at controlling the mosquito population. Here are the responses:
Fr: The overwhelming majority of respondents appear to have never encountered this issue. However, among those who responded affirmatively, they mentioned various methods and sources of information. These include EID public outreach (a Mediterranean coast public organization dedicated to insect control), education about the detrimental effects of stagnant water, chemical treatments, the use of pheromones, and public communication campaigns aimed at raising awareness and sensitizing the public to the issue.
On the scale from 1 to 10 how would you rate the existing measures to fight mosquitoes?
En: We inquired about the effectiveness of existing mosquito control measures in respondents' respective areas and asked them to rate it on a scale from 1 to 10, where 1 indicates the most ineffective measures and 10 represents the most effective ones. Here are the responses:
Fr:
Do you think the government should allocate more resources to mosquito control programs?
En: When asked whether respondents believe that the government should allocate more resources to mosquito control measures, the responses were as follows:
Fr: It appears that a significant majority of respondents are dissatisfied with the effectiveness of these methods and their outcomes. Moreover, a staggering 83.1% of participants believe that the government does not allocate sufficient resources to address this matter.
Would you be willing to pay for any special service to clean your place from mosquitoes?
En: When asked if they were willing to pay for mosquito control services available in their areas, the responses were as follows:
Fr: When it comes to taking action, 46.2% of respondents express hesitation, while 38.5% are unwilling to bear the expenses personally. Only a modest 15.4% of respondents are willing to agree to pay for mosquito control measures.
What time of the day do you see mosquitoes the most?
En: When respondents were asked about the specific times of day when they encountered more mosquitoes, the distribution of responses was as follows:
Fr: The majority of individuals, constituting 84.5%, report being bothered by mosquitoes during the evening or night, with 40% specifically mentioning nighttime discomfort. A smaller percentage, 21.5%, experience mosquito-related issues from midday onwards. A few individuals, approximately 7.7%, are bothered during midday, while 10.8% experience mosquito-related problems early in the morning.
Did you notice any changes in mosquitoes behavior?
En: When asked if they had noticed any changes in mosquito behavior in recent years, the responses were as follows:
Fr: The majority of respondents, accounting for 80%, have not observed any significant changes. However, some participants have noticed that mosquitoes have become quicker and more elusive. Others have mentioned that mosquitoes seem to be more active throughout the entire day, not just during the night. Furthermore, a substantial number of respondents find the noise made by mosquitoes more irritating than before.
Do you think personal actions can help? If yes, which ones?
En: When asked if they believed that personal actions, such as eliminating stagnant water, have a significant impact on reducing mosquito populations, the responses were as follows:
Fr: It appears that an overwhelming 96.9% of respondents have given positive feedback, indicating that the general public finds this idea to be highly useful.
Do you have mosquitoes trap at home?
En: When asked if they had mosquito traps at home, 65.6% of respondents did not have traps, while 34.4% reported having mosquito traps.
Fr: Despite the general dislike for mosquitoes and the desire to eliminate them, most people do not have specialized equipment at their disposal.
Would you be interested in going to a workshop or another educational event?
En: When asked if they were interested in educational events and workshops on mosquito control and prevention, the responses were as follows:
Fr: Here, we gauge the level of individual responsibility and willingness to take action in the fight against mosquitoes and epidemic prevention. A significant majority (44.6%) express their intent to attend such events, with 33.8% indicating a definite willingness to participate. Only 21.5% have a negative stance toward these events.
Would you buy our machine to have your personal detector ?
En:When asked if respondents were interested in purchasing our product, which is a small device designed to detect pathogens present in mosquitoes and transmit this information directly to epidemiologists or public health officials, the responses were as follows: