Malaria

Malaria

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Can GM (Genetically modified) mosquitoes wipe out malaria?

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First of all, people may be wondering how mosquitoes can protect against malaria since they cause one of the deadliest diseases in the world. More than 300 million people are infected by malaria every year. It mainly affects adults and children when warm, damp conditions make it ideal for mosquitoes to breed. The malaria parasite is transmitted by female Anopheles mosquitoes. Moreover, scientists have created a genetically modified mosquito in the first step of a bold plan to alter an entire species to wipe out malaria. They inserted a synthetic gene, called SM1, which blocks the development of the malaria parasite in the mosquitoes, and makes it difficult for them to transfer it to humans when mosquitoes bite. Scientists are planning to wipe out malaria by transferring this gene to the entire population of malaria- carrying mosquitoes. For example, scientists have managed to add a gene to Anopheles that codes for a protein that binds to the walls of their guts and salivary glands. This makes it difficult for the parasite to pass through. In addition, modifying a mosquito generically makes it less reactive and weaker. Therefore, as a weaker malaria-resistant mosquito, it cannot release the disease to the humans.

Finally, even if this process is proven to be working, it will take several years to prove that it is safe to both humans and the environment.

In conclusion, malaria causing mosquitoes can also be helpful in protecting against malaria if the proper genes to be transmitted to them are safe and effective to the humans.