Good news in the fight against the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. Australian scientists have developed an innovative technique using “toxic” sperm from genetically modified mosquitoes to reduce female populations. This method promises to be quick and efficient while preserving non-harmful species.
Australian scientists report in a study published on Tuesday that “toxic” sperm from genetically modified mosquitoes are tropical. May help fight disease transmission. Nature Communications. Their technique, known as “poisonous male,” involves inbreeding. The mosquitoThe mosquito Whose sperm contains protein. poisonouspoisonousFatal for women aftercouplescouples.
The goal is to kill such populations.WormsWorms Women, who are bloodsuckers, run the risk of inoculating their victims with potentially deadly infectious diseases such as malaria or dengue fever. According to Sam Beach, a scientist at Macquarie University in Australia, this method ” Work as soon as possible. PesticidesPesticideswithout loss SpeciesSpecies Beneficial ».
The “toxic” method is more effective than male sterilization.
” This innovative solution could change the way we deal with pests, offering hope for healthier communities and a more sustainable future. », includes the expert participating in this study. The first test, to prove the concept, focused on Vinegar beeVinegar beea species commonly used in the laboratory because of its shortness. DurationDuration Women who mated with “toxic” men saw a significant reduction in life expectancy, scientists report.
Maciej Maselko, another researcher at Macquarie University, said the next step was to test it on mosquitoes. To ensure that there is no risk to humans or other non-target species. ».
Genetic engineeringGenetic engineeringwhich involves manipulating the organisms’ DNA, is a technique that has long been used to control disease-transmitting mosquito populations, particularly by infecting groups of men. By purifying But simulations by ComputerComputer Show that the “toxic” approach may be more effective, the team of scientists say.
As for the production of genetically modified mosquitoes, this can be done by playing on “expression” methods. JanekJanek “, so that females can be fertilized in the laboratory without dying themselves.
