In order to eliminate vector borne disease we must have a diverse range of high quality and long-lasting vector control products. We help bring new vector control products to market more rapidly and cost efficiently by conducting rigorous evaluations using well powered studies, high research quality standards, and careful data analysis. At the same time, we are also dedicated to build capacity in entomology for the future of vector control.
We serve the community through excellence in service delivery, research into new methods of product testing and training of MSc and PhD students.
We use standard WHO testing methodology (laboratory studies, experimental hut studies, and community studies) for insecticide treated nets (ITNs) and indoor residual spray (IRS). We have also developed new bioassay techniques such as the Ifakara ambient chamber test (I-ACT) for ITN evaluation and large cage tests for testing spatial repellents. We conduct superiority, equivalence and non-inferiority testing dependent on client needs. We always do our testing on both susceptible and local resistant mosquito strains to show how products will perform in the African context where pyrethroid resistance is the norm. Our studies are conducted following principles of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP).
The unit has a standard costing and a business model to enhance efficiency and ensure client satisfaction. We team with Centre Swisse de Recherche Scientifique (CSRS) in Cote d'Ivoire, Jimma University in Ethiopia, National Institute for Malaria Research (NIMR) India, and Papua New Guinea Institute of Medical Research in Papua New Guinea providing the donor with a single protocol and report for multi-centre studies. This product testing hub allows us to provide even more efficient and wide-ranging service to our clients.
Our testing portfolio includes the following.
We provides comprehensive vector control solutions, emphasizing rigorous testing, innovative development strategies, and precise parameter measurements. With GLP certification since 2021, their commitment to high standards ensures accuracy in documentation, analysis, and reporting. Serving as a valuable ally globally, VCPTU offers evidence-based strategies to combat vector-borne diseases, making a tangible impact on public health.
We test for indoor residual spraying (IRS), insecticidal treated nets (ITNs), skin (topical) repellents, spatial (area) repellents, space sprays, larvicides, treated clothing, attractive targeted sugar baits (ATSB) and mosquito traps with lures.
We measure key parameters in the mosquito that translate to efficacy in reducing vector borne disease in the human population when applied at scale.
We develop new means of testing products and assist in developing guidelines for international use.
Our documentation, analysis and reporting is rigorous for ease of use by our partners.We offer protocol, data analysis and report writing services.
Laboratory Mosquito strains |
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|---|---|---|---|
| Strain | Susceptibility | PBO synergism | Mechanism |
| Anopheles gambiae s.s. (Ifakara) | fully susceptible to all classes | NA | NA |
| Anopheles gambiae s.s. (Kisumu) | fully susceptible to all classes | NA | NA |
| Anopheles gambiae s.s. (Kisumu KDR) | 80% survival of 1x discriminating concentration of pyrethroids | full restoration of sensitivity to pyrethroids | KDR East, KDR west and upregulation of P450 |
| Anopheles arabiensis (Kingani) | 50% survival of 1x discriminating concentration of pyrethroids | full restoration of sensitivity to pyrethroids | overexpression of CYP6P1 and upregulation of CYP450 |
| Anopheles funestus (FUMOZ) | 50% survival of 1x discriminating concentration of pyrethroids | full restoration of sensitivity to pyrethroids | upregulation of CYP450 |
| Aedes aegypti | fully susceptible to all classes of insecticides | NA | NA |
| Culex quinquefasciatus | 50% survival of 1x discriminating concentration of pyrethroids | partial restoration of sensitivity to pyrethroids | NA |
Between 2017 and 2021 the unit has undergone rapid expansion and now has outstanding research facilities and a team of 15 highly motivated research staff: PhD (4), MSc (8), BSc (4) with a growing number of female scientists (5). In addition to service contracts, the unit is actively engaged in applied research, with current research grants in the field of product development or bioassay development funded by many international donors and universities.
Head of Unit
Test Facility Manager
Study Director
Project Manager
Administrative Officer
Administrative Officer
Study Coordinator
Study Coordinator
Study Coordinator
Study Coordinator
Research Scientist
Data Officer
Get in Touch with VCPTU
Off Chuguni Road - Bagamoyo, P.O. Box 74, Bagamoyo - Tanzania.
VCPTUmgt@ihi.or.tz
+255 232 440 065
