Evolutionary Genetics of Aedes Aegypti

Aedes aegypti is the major vector of yellow fever and dengue fever viruses across the world. As of today, there is no vaccine for dengue. Therefore, investigating the biology of the vector, Aedes aegypti, is crucial for disease control. To determinate genetic variation across the geographic distribution of Aedes aegypti, we tested different MgCl₂ concentrations and annealing temperatures when using a polymerase chain reaction to amplify DNA fragments. In addition, we used a cloning method to separate the heterozygote alleles. Here we report the genetic variation between different geographic populations of Aedes aegypti. We conclude that African populations are very different than worldwide populations. These results may play a role in the approaches to control Dengue.