vectormediated

Vectormediated refers to processes that are mediated by a vector. In biology, the term most often concerns vector-borne transmission of pathogens or vectormediated gene delivery.

Vector-borne transmission occurs when an organism carries a pathogen from an infected host to a susceptible one. Vectors such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and sandflies enable disease cycles for pathogens including Plasmodium (malaria), dengue virus, Zika virus, and Borrelia burgdorferi. The efficiency of transmission depends on vector competence, population density, and environmental factors such as climate and habitat.

Vectormediated gene delivery uses delivery vectors to introduce genetic material into target cells. Viral vectors such as adeno-associated virus (AAV), adenovirus, and lentivirus are common, alongside non-viral methods like lipid nanoparticles. These approaches are central to research and therapeutic applications but require careful consideration of safety, specificity, and immune responses.

Terminology varies; vector-mediated is the more common form in many scientific texts, with vectormediated appearing as a variant in some journals. The concept encompasses both natural pathogen transmission by vectors and engineered delivery systems that rely on vectors to transfer genetic or molecular payloads. In both contexts, understanding the biology of the vector and its interactions with hosts is essential for interpretation and application.