Culex quinquefasciatus
mosquitoes have been successfully genetically modified only once, despite the efforts of several laboratories to transform and establish a stable strain. We have developed a transient gene expression method, in Culex, that delivers plasmid DNA directly to the mosquito haemolymph and additional tissues. We were able to express
DsRed2 fluorescent protein in adult
Cx. quinquefasciatus mosquitoes by injecting plasmids directly into their thorax. The expression of
DsRed2 in adult
Cx. quinquefasciatus mosquitoes is an important stepping stone to genetic transformation and the potential use of new control strategies and genetic interactions.
