Development of a Technique Using Artificial Membrane for In Vitro Rearing of Body Lice Pediculus humanus humanus.

ABSTRACT: Human lice are the only hematophagous ectoparasites specific to human hosts. They transmit epidemic typhus, trench fever and relapsing fever, diseases which have already caused millions of deaths worldwide. In order to further investigate lice vectorial capacities, laboratory-controlled live lice colonies are essential. Previously developed lice-rearing methods significantly advanced research on louse-borne diseases and louse biology. In this study, we aimed to develop a rearing technique for the Orlando (Or) strain of body lice on an artificial membrane. We tested two systems, namely the Hemotek feeding system and a Petri dish with the lice being fed through a Parafilm membrane. Lice longevity and development were drastically affected by the blood anticoagulant. Additionally, heparinised

SUBMITTER: Hammoud A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10971218 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature