Why Genetically Modified Mosquitoes Can’t Kill Aedes Aegypti

Wouter

Using genetically modified mosquitoes to wipe out the disease-carrying insects has the potential to eliminate malaria and other deadly human diseases. But before the experiment can begin, scientists need to find out if the genetically modified mosquitoes actually reduce the wild Aedes aegypti population.

Researchers have tested modified mosquitoes in the laboratory. They have also done field tests in India, Brazil, Panama, and the Cayman Islands.

The genetically modified male mosquitoes carry a gene that kills the offspring of a female mosquito. However, they are designed to be non-biting. This could lower the cost of eliminating them and could keep the mosquitoes from spreading malaria.

The Oxitec project is intended to target the Aedes aegypti mosquito. This mosquito has caused Zika in other countries, and has spread dengue in other regions. Its population has reached epidemic levels. Aedes aegypti is one of the world’s most dangerous invasive insects.

To reduce the size of the population, scientists have developed a method of genetically modifying the male mosquitoes. This technique is known as gene drive. This technique works by passing traits to half of all offspring. The hope is to prevent the mosquitoes from evolving resistance to the gene drive.

The genetically modified mosquitoes are also designed to delay the development of the malaria parasite. They are genetically engineered to secrete two small proteins. Those proteins, which come from honeybees and an African clawed frog, act as a sort of antidote. The compound in the gut helps stunt the growth of the malaria parasite.

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