UW researchers identify mosquito receptor that detects plant-based repellents
By Dan Thesman on Monday, April 6th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
SEATTLE — University of Washington researchers have identified a specific sensory receptor that allows mosquitoes to detect and avoid borneol, a common compound found in plant-based repellents like rosemary and camphor.
The study, published in Nature Communications, found that mosquitoes — which transmit diseases such as dengue and yellow fever — possess a single odor receptor called OR49. When this receptor encounters borneol, it triggers a “push” signal in the mosquito’s brain, prompting the insect to fly away.
Researchers demonstrated the receptor’s importance by disabling the OR49 gene. Without it, the mosquitoes’ neurons failed to respond to the compound, and the insects no longer avoided it.
“By identifying the odorant receptor, we can now develop and test repellents that are even more effective than borneol,” UW biology professor and co-author Jeffrey Riffell said. Scientists hope the discovery will lead to cheaper, longer-lasting, and more pleasant-smelling alternatives to current mosquito control products.
