Selection of Phlebotomus papatasi (Diptera: Psychodidae) lines susceptible and refractory to Leishmania major infection
Wu, W.K.; Tesh, R.B.
American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene 42(4): 320-328
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9637 PMID: 2331041 Document Number: 364064
Variation in susceptibility to infection with cultured promastigotes of L. major was detected among 3 different geographic strains (ISRAEL, EGYPT, and INDIA) of P. papatasi. The ISRAEL strain showed the greatest susceptibility and was chosen for subsequent genetic selection experiments. After 13 generations of genetic selection in this strain, a stable refractory line was obtained in which only 7.5% of the insects could be infected. A highly susceptible line was also obtained in 5 generations of selection. Infection rates in the susceptible line were stabilized at about 94%. A description of the selection process and characteristics of the 2 lines are given.