News > Researchers map mosquito cells that may help the insects choose tastiest humans

Researchers map mosquito cells that may help the insects choose tastiest humans

In a bid to understand why mosquitoes may be more attracted to one human than another, researchers say they have mapped specialized receptors on the insects' nerve cells that are able to fine-tune their ability to detect particularly 'welcoming' odors in human skin. Receptors on mosquito neurons have an important role in the insects' ability to identify people who present an attractive source of a blood meal, according to Dr. Christopher Potter.