Dr Christida Wastika

Research interests

My research explores the dynamic interplay between arboviruses and their mosquito vectors, focusing on the molecular mechanisms that govern infection. I investigate these processes in vitro using a range of mosquito cell lines and extend these findings in vivo by infecting lab-reared mosquitoes to validate key pathways. A central goal of my work is to identify host factors that modulate or restrict viral infection within the mosquito.

While working with mosquito cell lines presents unique technical challenges, I am particularly interested in bridging methodologies from mammalian systems to bring fresh perspectives into vector biology and viral pathogenesis. Beyond the vector, I am equally engaged in understanding arboviral infections in humans, especially in the context of transmission dynamics.

Looking ahead, I am excited to contribute to the discovery and development of anti-arboviral strategies, with the long-term aim of advancing interventions that protect both human and animal health.

Selected research publications

Exploiting venom toxins in paratransgenesis to prevent mosquito-borne disease – Journal: Parasites and Vectors – Published: 29th January 2025

Attenuated infection by a pteropine orthoreovirus isolated from an egyptian fruit bat in zambia – Journal: PLoS Neglected Tropical Diseases – Published: 1st September 2021

Long‐term persistence of neutralizing SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies in pets – Journal: Transboundary and Emerging Diseases – Published: 1st September 2021

Host serine proteases TMPRSS2 and TMPRSS11D mediate proteolytic activation and trypsin-independent infection in group a rotaviruses – Journal: Journal of Virology – Published: 1st June 2021

Discoveries of Exoribonuclease-Resistant Structures of Insect-Specific Flaviviruses Isolated in Zambia – Journal: Viruses – Published: 1st September 2020

View more publications