Mission Statement
In the Catteruccia laboratory, we are motivated by our conviction that no one should suffer from malaria and other vector-borne diseases. We conduct rigorous science to advance this common goal while fostering an environment of intellectual curiosity, collaboration, and inclusivity.
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Our Research
Malaria, a leading cause of death in tropical and subtropical regions, is transmitted by the bite of female Anopheles mosquitoes. In Africa, where 90% of deaths occur, the major malaria vector is the mosquito Anopheles gambiae. Females of this and related species have a high reproductive capacity that is ensured by a single mating event followed by multiple blood feeding cycles.
In our research group we study the molecular and behavioral parameters that are key to the ability of Anopheles mosquitoes to transmit malaria, with special emphasis on reproductive biology and vector-Plasmodium interactions. Our aim is to provide crucial knowledge to aid the development of new, effective tools for mosquito and malaria control. A key component of our research includes fieldwork studies in Africa on mating biology and natural malaria infections. These studies, in collaboration with IRSS in Burkina Faso, ICIPE in Kenya and other partners, are expanding our understanding of mosquito reproductive biology, mosquito-microbiota interactions, and natural malaria infections.
Currently our scientific program covers a number of research areas:
Lab News
2023
October 25th – Congratulations Iryna for your dissertation defense!
September – Lisa Verzier joined the Catteruccia lab, welcome Lisa!
July 5 – Laura receives a Rubicon Fellowship from NWO. Gefeliciteerd Laura!
June 22 – Jack’s last day in lab. You will be missed Jack, but we can’t wait to see all the amazing things you do during your PhD at Yale!
June 20 – New manuscript. Congrats to Kelsey and all co-authors for an amazing manuscript on the connection between insecticide resistance and Plasmodium infection! Check it out in PLoS Pathogens!
June 15 – Doug’s last day in lab. We will miss you so much Doug! You’re going to be an amazing PI and UGA is so lucky to have you!
June 13 – New publication. Congrats Andie for submitting an exciting manuscript! Check it out on bioRxiv!
June 10 – Boston Pride for the People. Esrah and Alli marched with One Queer Harvard in Boston Pride for the People! Rob, Jorge, Flam, and Malhar went to support them!
June 3 – New publication. Congrats Iryna for submitting an amazing manuscript about Vg! Up on bioRxiv now!
