GM Fungus May Aid in War Against Malaria

A team of researchers claim they have genetically modified a fungus that produces a spider-toxin, which has the capability of curbing mosquito populations and help drastically reduce the spread of malaria.

The scientists – from both the University of Maryland (UMD) and the Research Institute of Health Sciences (IRSS) in Burkina Faso – held trials in test sites located in the West African country.

They concluded that 99% of mosquito populations crumbled within 45 days when the fungus was introduced. These results were published in the online publication, “Science.”

Dr Brian Lovett, a graduate student in UMD’s Department of Entomology, and co-author of the study, explained: “Our technology is not aiming to drive the extinction of mosquitoes – what we’re aiming to do is break malaria transmission in an area.”

The research team say they are excited to test their engineered fungus in a local village or community.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that global climate change is driving the growth in mosquito populations and the subsequent increase in new malaria infections.

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