Genetically Modified Mosquitoes

Context

Recently, scientists have genetically modified mosquitoes to slow the growth of malaria-causing parasites in their guts which can also help prevent transmission of the disease to humans.

Genetic modification in Mosquitoes 

• GM mosquitoes are mass-produced in a laboratory to carry two types of genes:
• A self-limiting gene that prevents female mosquito offspring from surviving to adulthood.
• A fluorescent marker gene that glows under a special red light. This allows researchers to identify GM mosquitoes in the wild.
• New tools are increasingly needed as mosquitoes develop resistance to insecticides and treatments.
• Shorter life span: The peptides impair the malarial parasite’s development and also cause the mosquitoes to have a shorter life span.
• Gene drive technology: Gene drive is one such powerful weapon that in combination with drugs, vaccines and mosquito control can help stop the spread of malaria and save human lives. 

Significance

• It can help prevent transmission of the disease to humans.
• If proven in the real world it could offer a powerful new tool to help eliminate malaria.