Genetic Surveillance and Molecular Diversity of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae): A Systematic Review of Molecular Approaches and Their Epidemiological Applications
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64707/revstss.v49i1.1982Keywords:
Aedes aegypti, Genetic diversity, Molecular surveillance, Genomics, Africa, Vector controlAbstract
Vector-borne diseases, such as dengue, yellow fever, Zika, and chikungunya, represent a major global health problem, affecting millions of people each year. Aedes aegypti, the primary vector of these arboviruses, is currently at the center of vector control strategies and epidemiological surveillance. Its ecological plasticity and adaptive capacity justify the growing interest in molecular approaches aimed at characterizing the genetic diversity and population structure of this species.
This systematic review, conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines, aims to synthesize the knowledge acquired between 2000 and 2025 on the molecular diversity and genetic surveillance of Aedes aegypti. An extensive literature search was carried out across five international databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar), including publications in both English and French. Eligible studies were required to present original data derived from molecular analyses (microsatellites, mitochondrial DNA, isoenzymes, RAPD, etc.).
Out of the 139 articles initially identified, 20 met the inclusion criteria. The results reveal the existence of two major genetic lineages: African and non-African, as well as a particularly high intra-population diversity in sub-Saharan Africa. Recent genomic approaches confirm the importance of integrated molecular surveillance to anticipate vector emergence and adapt control strategies accordingly.
This synthesis highlights the urgent need to strengthen genetics and bioinformatics capacities in Africa, to develop regional surveillance networks, and to promote vector control strategies based on genetic data.
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