Arthropod Infection Models for Francisella tularensis

Purpose of Review
Little is known about the interactions between Francisella tularensis and arthropods. The advent of next-generation sequencing led to a better knowledge of the genetic diversity of F. tularensis, which is associated with macrogeographical areas. These findings, coupled with precise methods to follow bacteria within arthropods, brought a renewed interest in this field. The scope of this review is to present the most recent literature describing experimental infections of arthropod vectors with F. tularensis.

Recent Findings
The latest data show the importance to test relevant lineages of F. tularensis and also emphasize the importance to improve arthropod infection models.

Summary
Many gaps still need to be filled to better understand the role of arthropods in the transmission and maintenance of F. tularensis. However, significant advancements were made in the last years. Future research will likely contribute to unravel the interconnections between F. tularensis, host, vector, and the environment.