Welcome to the Taracena Agarwal lab.
We conduct research to understand fundamental questions about how insects that carry diseases work. In particular, we study how female-specific traits are developed in these insects’ non-reproductive organs in response to sex-determination genes and hormonal cues. Some of the insects we are working on are Anopheles gambiae, Anopheles stephensi, Aedes aegypti, and Rhodnius prolixus.
Why these insects?
These insects transmit malaria, dengue fever, Zika, yellow fever, chikungunya, and Chagas disease.
According to the World Health Organization, over 600,000 lives were lost in 2023 due to malaria, and more than half of the world’s population is at risk of dengue infection. They estimate that over 390 million dengue infections occur worldwide, resulting in up to 36,000 deaths. Chagas disease is a tropical neglected disease mainly found in endemic areas of Latin America. It is estimated that 75 million people are at risk of infection, and 6-7 million people are infected with it. To prevent these infections, it is essential to have efficient vector-control strategies. Many of these strategies are based on the use of insecticides, but novel methods are needed to have more sustainable, effective, and long-lasting vector management.
How do we do our research?
At the Taracena-Agarwal lab, we leverage a combination of cutting-edge methods to study the gene expression and cellular function of disease vectors. Our toolkit includes quantitative PCR and droplet digital PCR for precise gene expression analysis, complemented by bulk and single-cell transcriptomics to capture the full spectrum of cellular activity. We utilize flow cytometry for detailed cell population studies and phenotyping, while immunohistochemistry allows us to study tissue structures and phenomena with greater detail. Our research also spans cellular biology, microbiology, and general physiology assays to provide a comprehensive understanding of the biological processes. This diverse array of methodologies enables us to conduct thorough and innovative research, pushing the boundaries of what is known in the field.
The entomology department at Cornell University
Our department houses the oldest entomology program in the United States and has a worldwide impact on entomological research. With many research groups in the areas of medical entomology, ecology, insect physiology, and the genetics of sex determination, our group has a rich environment for collaborations.