Connecting genotypes to medically relevant phenotypes in major vector mosquitoes

Transmission of mosquito-borne human disease relies on vectors maintaining strong human host preference and continued susceptibility to disease-causing pathogens or parasites. These traits are affected by the genetics and the environments of all involved organisms, and genotypic interactions are common between parasite and vector, and between virus and vector. A recent study on Aedes host preference has exploited natural genetic variation to make great progress. Here I review our current understanding of the genetic basis of transmission-relevant traits in Anopheles and Aedes, highlighting additional research areas that would benefit from the integration of natural genetic variation.