Mini review: Mode of action of mosquito repellents

The mode of action of mosquito repellents remains a controversial topic. However, electrophysiological studies and molecular approaches have provided a better understanding of how repellents exert their effects. Here, we briefly discuss various theories of repellent action and present the current status of knowledge of the effects of repellents on olfactory and gustatory processes. These findings provide a framework for further development of existing repellents and the discovery of new compounds with novel modes of action.

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► Repellents affect olfactory and gustatory receptors.
► These receptors harbor multiple sites for interactions with repellents.
► This knowledge will facilitate discovery of new repellent chemistries.