Applications of natural products in the control of mosquito-transmitted diseases

Abstract

Mosquito-transmitted diseases remain one of the most significant causes of mortality in the African continent, despite successes in controlling these diseases in other regions of the world. The disproportionate impact in areas of poverty suggests a need for control that is efficient and does not
require complex technological control strategies. Focusing on the vectors of disease, the mosquito, there are many alternatives to synthetic, chemical pesticides that await discovery and development. Although some natural products have been described, there is still a need for continuing research that incorporates endogenous knowledge in the selection process for potential vector control candidates. Recent experiments using natural products are summarized. Ultimately, a paradigm shift in research that evaluates natural products in a comparative manner will help to produce new materials for effective and efficient control of vectors and thereby achieve sustainable reduction of the impacts from the diseases they carry.