Chemical ecology of triatomines: current knowledge and implications for Chagas disease vector management

Abstract

Triatomines (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Reduviidae), commonly known as conenose or kissing bugs, includes species of outstanding medical importance given their role as vectors of the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi Chagas (Kinetoplastida: Trypanosomatidae), the aetiological agent of Chagas disease. Herein, we present an updated review of the chemical ecology of triatomines, with special reference to molecules involved in the communication of these insects. Infochemicals, including hormones and semiochemicals (pheromones and allelochemicals), have a pivotal role in mediating information and shaping interactions within and between triatomines, during distinct behavioural contexts. We analyse the new findings about the chemical composition of alarm, aggregation and sex pheromones, as well as on cuticular hydrocarbons, host attractants and repellents. We also discuss how triatomine hormones may serve as communication signals and highlight the importance of the reverse chemical ecology approach in studying the complex chemoecology of these arthropod vectors. In the final section, we outline how knowledge about triatomine chemical ecology can be used for implementing real-world control operations with proven epidemiological impact.