Genetically Modified Mosquitoes for Controlling Vector-borne Diseases

Recently, the first open-air study of Genetically Modified Mosquitoes (GMM) in the United States yielded positive results.

• The experiment aimed to reduce the population of wild Aedes aegypti mosquitoes that is a vector for viruses such as chikungunya, dengue, zika and yellow fever.

Key Points: The scientists engineered a gene that will kill the female offspring since only female mosquitoes bite and spread disease.

• When released into the environment, the engineered males mate with wild females, and their female offspring die before they can reproduce.
• Male offsprings carry the gene and pass it on to half of their progeny. As each generation mates, more ....