Spatiotemporal expression of ABC transporters linked to pyrethroid resistance in Anopheles stephensi

Malaria continues to pose a substantial global health burden, primarily due to its transmission by Anopheline mosquitoes. Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) treated with deltamethrin are vital components of malaria control strategies. However, resistance among mosquito populations poses a threat to their effectiveness. ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters, functioning as critical efflux pumps, contribute to insecticide resistance by mitigating the intracellular accumulation of toxic compounds. This study investigates the expression profiles of genes from the ABCB, ABCC, ABCG and ABCH subfamilies, each recognized for its involvement in xenobiotic transport and detoxification. This study delineates the spatiotemporal expression dynamics of ABC transporters in Anopheles stephensi in response to deltamethrin exposure. Through qRT-PCR analyses, we quantified tissue-specific and developmental stage-dependent gene expression patterns. The findings offer critical insights into the functional modulation of ABC transporters and their integral role in the development of insecticide resistance. This research lays the groundwork for the rational design of novel interventions, including the deployment of ABC transporter modulators to augment LLIN efficacy. Ultimately, these results will support the development of strategies aimed at inhibiting ABC transporter activity, promoting sustainable mosquito population control and malaria prevention.