Reconstructing Nature: The Appearance of Genetically Modified Mosquitoes

Yellow fever mosquito spread diseases like Zika

In the quest to combat vector- borne diseases such as malaria, Zika, and dengue virus, scientists have taken an innovative path: genetically modified mosquitoes. 

Genetically modified mosquitoes, with sophisticated genetic alterations, are anticipated to be an important tool in global efforts to eventually eradicate these debilitating diseases. 

The spread of disease, Yellow fever mosquitoes  

The mosquito, which has a 4-7mm body with white and black striped legs, is a Yellow fever mosquito. Female Yellow fever mosquitoes spread deadly viruses such as dengue fever and Zika in the process of sucking human blood to lay eggs. Mosquito expert Rajiv Vaidyanathan said, "Yellow fever mosquitoes inhabit hiding in plants and seek places to lay eggs. Studies have shown that they are also highly resistant to pesticides."

Cutting-edge of gene editing technology

In order to solve the problem, scientists have started to exterminate mosquitoes using CRISPR-Cas9. The method involves inserting a gene fragment into a mosquito's egg by inserting an injection needle into it. In the process of mating with female mosquitoes in the wild, male mosquitoes born in this way produce offspring, while the female offspring die and only the male offspring survive. This is because female mosquitoes feed on human blood and spread the disease.

Practical Applications: Florida

Florida released 5 million genetically modified mosquitoes and observed the results. In some areas, the number of larvae decreased significantly, and about 20,000 larvae collected had a modified gene made by the researchers. 

Ethical and ecological considerations   

Nevertheless, the public raised concerns that the engineered genes would demolish the order of nature, have unintended consequences, and have a wider ecological impact. In response, the research team countered that the experiment is significantly less likely to cause side effects to humans and ecosystems. 

CEO Fransen defined that there have been no reports of adverse environmental or human health effects of GMO organisms in cases where 1 billion genetically modified mosquitoes have been released over the past decade. 

He added, "We are always careful to ensure that all creatures that are released into nature are safe and highly effective. There is no environmental impact. It is non-toxic, does not cause allergic reactions, and is only limited to certain species."

By exploring the intricate dance between cutting-edge science and practical application, the development and deployment of engineered mosquitoes exemplify the potential of genetic engineering to tackle some of humanity's most pressing health challenges.