The role of P450 enzymes in malaria and other vector‐borne infectious diseases

Abstract Vector‐borne infectious diseases are still an important global health problem. Malaria is the most important among them, mainly pediatric, life‐threatening disease. Malaria and other vector‐borne disorders caused by parasites, bacteria, and viruses have a strong impact on public health and significant economic costs. Most vector‐borne diseases could be prevented by vector control, with attention to the ecological and biodiversity conservation aspects. Chemical control with pesticides and insecticides is widely used as a measure of prevention although increasing resistance to insecticides is a serious issue in vector control. Metabolic resistance is the most common mechanism and poses a big challenge. Insect enzyme systems, including monooxygenase CYP P450 enzymes, are employed by vectors mainly to metabolize insecticides thus causing resistance. The discovery and application of natural specific inhibitors/blockers of vector P450 enzymes as synergists for commonly used pesticides will contribute to the “greening” of insecticides. Besides vector CYPs, host CYP enzymes could also be exploited to fight against vector‐borne diseases: using mostly their detoxifying properties and involvement in the immune response. Here, we review published research data on P450 enzymes from all players in vector‐borne infections, that is, pathogens, vectors, and hosts, regarding the potential role of CYPs in disease. We discuss strategies on how to exploit cytochromes P450 in vector‐borne disease control.