A genetic mutation led to the resistance of mosquitoes
A simple genetic mutation may explain why malaria mosquitoes become resistant to a major class of insecticides, suggests a new study. Some insecticides manufactured from chemicals known as organophosphates and carbonates are used worldwide to combat mosquitoes. They block an enzyme key to the nervous system of insects called acetyl cholinesterase, leading to paralysis and rapid death of the latter. But mosquitoes have developed resistance to organophosphates and carbonates, especially in urban areas where they are most used. The modalities of this resistance remained unknown.
Researchers, led by Mylene Weill at the University of Montpellier II (France), come to identify the gene that encodes acetyl cholinesterase. The team then discovered a simple molecular difference in this gene, which underlies the resistance to both insecticides. They identified the mutation in a strain of mosquito vector of malaria in particular: Anopheles Gambiae. This discovery increases the understanding of this resistance and could contribute to the development of new insecticides, note Mats Wahlgren of the Karolinska Institute (Stockholm, Sweden). But chemical agents will be insufficient to keep the insects at bay, said Weill. It is necessary to continue to develop medicines and vaccines to support the fight against malaria and other infectious diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, “she adds.
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