Our lab, of the Center for Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases (CVID), studies the ecology and transmission dynamics of vector-borne pathogens, particularly emerging arboviruses. A multitude of factors influence the enzootic circulation of arboviruses and their potential for introduction and establishment in new geographic areas. We are interested in understanding the natural, sylvatic circulation of arboviruses in endemic areas, how an arbovirus might become established in vector and host populations in new geographic areas, and entomological risk factors surrounding such introductions.
To this end, our field and laboratory studies are focused on evaluation of the biological capacity of different mosquito species and populations to support virus replication and serve as efficient vectors, potential mechanisms for virus maintenance in mosquito populations, and the how the interactions of a mosquito species with competent vertebrate amplifying hosts over space and time may influence epizootic virus activity. In addition to these entomological studies, we have an ongoing project to investigate the potential role of bats as arbovirus reservoirs and a source of emerging arboviruses.
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Bats and humans depend on the caves that pockmark the Mount Elgon caldera in eastern Uganda, making it the perfect field site to study human-bat interactions and emerging viral pathogens.
CSU researchers expanded their neurovirology work to include anti-inflammatory drug therapies for COVID-19. Colorado State University is one of a small number of universities where this research can take place.
A team of Colorado State University scientists has detected Zika virus RNA in free-ranging African bats. The findings have ecological implications and raise questions about how bats are exposed to Zika virus in nature.
contact information
Lab: Center for Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases room 130
Office: Center for Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases room 176
(970) 491-7833
rebekah.kading@colostate.edu