Geneticists have created toxic mosquitoes that will help fight epidemics

Researchers from Macquarie University have developed a new technology for biological control of mosquito populations, called the Toxic Males Technique (TMT). This method is based on the genetic modification of male mosquitoes, whose semen contains special toxic proteins. These proteins are safe for humans and most animals, but they shorten the lifespan of females after mating.
The first laboratory tests on fruit flies showed promising results: the life expectancy of females decreased by 37-64%. Computer modeling predicts that applying this technology to Aedes aegypti mosquitoes can reduce the frequency of bites by 40-60% compared to existing control methods.
Study co-author Sam Beach noted that the experience of fighting COVID-19 has shown the importance of rapidly reducing the spread of diseases to prevent epidemics. The new technology works instantly, without requiring a generational change of insects, unlike traditional methods of genetic control.
The developers emphasize the safety of the method: the toxins used are carefully selected and affect only invertebrates, without posing a threat to mammals. Even if such mosquitoes are accidentally eaten by other insects, the risk is minimal due to the low oral toxicity.
The technology is currently undergoing laboratory testing. According to the head of the study, Maciej Maselko, it is necessary to conduct additional tests on mosquitoes and make sure that the method is completely safe for humans and the environment. The university has already filed a patent application with the Australian Patent Office.
This development could be a real breakthrough in the fight against disease vectors, which cause hundreds of thousands of deaths and millions of infections worldwide every year.