New tools for the taxonomic classification of the insect vectors of leishmaniasis: usefulness of mitochondrial genes

Abstract

The controversial taxonomic position of phlebotomine sandflies based upon morphological evidence indicates the need to examine alternative sources of phylogenetic information. New taxonomic tools could lead to a more consistent classification within phlebotomine sandflies according to evolution patterns and, to distinguish morphologically similar species. With the molecular biology techniques now available, the study of insect vector genomes has become an important step to help to resolve many taxonomic problems. The majority of the genes chosen for such studies are mitochondrial because they are easier to isolate and manipulate, and evolve quickly. Recently, mitochondrial gene polymorphisms have begun to be used to infer phylogenetic relationships among species of genera Lutzomyia and Phlebotomus. This article presents an updated review about the main studied phlebotomine groups, selected mitochondrial genes, and its contribution to the classification of leishmaniasis vectors.