Activating the Mosquito Immune System (IMAGE) University of Pennsylvania Caption Activating a mosquito's immune system can prevent it from transmitting the parasites that cause canine heartworm and human lymphatic filariasis, according to new research from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. In the work, a simple assay "tricked" the parasite into thinking the mosquito had landed on a potential host by placing the insects in warm medium. Credit The Povelones Laboratory/University of Pennsylvania Usage Restrictions In context of reporting License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.