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Trypanosoma cruzi -- the vector-parasite paradox

2000; Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Ministério da Saúde; Volume: 95; Issue: 4 Linguagem: Inglês

10.1590/s0074-02762000000400016

1678-8060

CJ Schofield,

Insect symbiosis and bacterial influences

Trypanosoma cruzi and the majority of its insect vectors (Hemiptera, Reduviidae, Triatominae) are confined to the Americas. But while recent molecular studies indicate a relatively ancient origin for the parasite (~65 million years ago) there is increasing evidence that the blood-sucking triatomine vectors have evolved comparatively recently (<5 mya). This review examines the evidence for these ideas, and attempts to reconcile the apparent paradox by suggesting that marsupial opossums (Didelphidae) may have played a role, not just as original reservoir hosts, but also as original vectors of the parasite.