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Workshop 1 - Pyrethroid target-site resistance

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Training course in data analysis for genomic surveillance of African malaria vectors

Workshop 1 - Pyrethroid target-site resistance#

Topic#

This training workshop introduces the use of genomic data to analyse mutations in the gene targeted by pyrethroid insecticides. This gene is named Vgsc and encodes a protein known as the voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC), which is part of the mosquito’s nervous system. Mutations in this gene can affect the way that pyrethroid insecticides bind to this protein, reducing their efficacy and causing a form of insecticide resistance known as pyrethroid target-site resistance. Pyrethroid insecticides are the primary ingredient in all insecticide-treated bednets currently used for malaria control, so identifying and tracking mutations in the Vgsc gene is an important surveillance activity.

Structure and format#

This workshop comprises four modules:

Each module includes a video lecture, and is accompanied by a notebook which includes lecture notes, code examples, and a set of practical exercises.

Prerequisites#

This is a hands-on workshop involving the analysis of real genetic data. To follow this workshop you will need to have some prior experience of data analysis using a programming language such as Python, R, Julia, Matlab or Stata. The practical exercises in this workshop will use the Python programming language, and some prior experience of Python will be advantageous, but is not required.

During the practical sessions in this workshop we will use Google Colaboratory (a.k.a. Colab), which is an interactive cloud computing service provided for free by Google. In order to use Colab you will need to have a Google user account. If you do not already have a Google user account, please make sure to create one before the workshop.

Preparation#

The following resources are recommended preparation before attending the workshop:

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