Download Button Example

Representational Image (IANS) — Representational image
(IANS)

Remember that sinister theory about a certain nation genetically engineering a virus to make it potent enough to afflict humanity worldwide? While the notion itself carries malevolent undertones, its underlying concept holds remarkable potential if redirected toward benevolent ends. And in Brazil, they are doing just that!

Faced with an alarming surge in dengue fever cases, scientists in Brazil have embarked on a bold initiative by releasing genetically modified mosquitoes out into the environment, LiveScience reports.

The South American nation recorded over 1 million cases of the mosquito-borne viral infection during the first two months of 2024—a whopping 226% more than the number of cases in the same period in 2023—plunging various cities into states of emergency.

In response to the dengue crisis, Brazilian health authorities have explored innovative strategies to curb disease transmission, alongside the deployment of vaccines. Among these approaches is the utilisation of genetically altered mosquitoes, spearheaded by the biotechnology firm Oxitec.

Dengue fever spreads solely through bites from female Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Thus, Oxitec focuses on breeding male mosquitoes of this species and genetically modifying them to carry a lethal gene. This gene ensures that any female offspring produced perish before reaching adulthood, effectively curbing mosquito populations.

Aedes aegypti mosquitoes typically lay their eggs in stagnant water, specifically on the inner walls of the containers holding the water. Oxitec simulates these conditions by placing modified male mosquito eggs in designated boxes, inducing hatching with the addition of water. Within approximately ten days, the genetically altered mosquitoes complete their life cycle within these controlled environments before emerging as adult insects.

This approach has demonstrated the potential to drastically reduce Aedes aegypti populations by up to 90% in regions where modified mosquitoes are released. Oxitec has initiated such releases across several cities in Brazil, marking a significant stride in disease control efforts.

Similar success was observed back in 2021 as well, when genetically modified Aedes aegypti mosquitoes were introduced in the USA's Florida Keys, aiming to diminish wild mosquito populations responsible for disease transmission.

While concerns persist regarding the possibility of genetically modified mosquitoes producing viable offspring with unforeseen implications, current evidence suggests no imminent threat to human health from this phenomenon.

For weather, science, and COVID-19 updates on the go, download The Weather Channel App (on Android and iOS store). It's free!

Science

Brazil Has Released Genetically Modified Mosquitoes Into Its Cities to Control the Dengue Crisis!