What was the central idea of gene editing wiped out a population of mosquitoes in lab tests?

[1]Gene editing may push a species of malaria-carrying mosquito to extinction. These new results come from a small-scale laboratory study.

How does mosquito gene drive work?

Gene-drive mosquitoes The group built a gene drive that would change a sex-related gene and disrupt female fertility. The gene drive with the damaged female fertility gene spread through 100\% of the test population in as little as seven generations. The species could not mate and the population collapsed.

Can mosquito population be successfully eradicated?

The results of this pilot trial, using SIT in combination with the IIT, demonstrate the successful near-elimination of field populations of the world’s most invasive mosquito species, Aedes albopictus (Asian tiger mosquito).

Are mosquitoes necessary for the ecosystem?

The mosquitoes purpose in our ecosystem is to provide food and pollination. They also help pollinate some flowers, when they consume nectar. But mosquitoes also can have a damaging role, harming other animals by being a vector for diseases, such as malaria, yellow fever, encephalitis and dengue.

Why should we use gene drives?

Gene drives have been proposed as a way to reduce or eliminate insect-borne diseases, control invasive species and even reverse insecticide resistance in pests.

What would be the pros of using a gene drive in mosquitoes?

Researchers are introducing gene drives into malaria-carrying mosquito species to reduce the spread of the disease, either by gradually reducing their ability to breed, or by limiting their ability to pass on the parasite.

How do you reduce mosquito population?

5 DIY Solutions to Reduce Mosquitoes on Your Property

1. Reduce Standing Water.
2. Invite the mosquitoes’ enemies to move-in.
3. Plant lemongrass or use lemongrass oil.
4. Clean up your yard.
5. 2-for-1 DIY option: Coffee and Ice.

Why are mosquitoes important to the ecosystem?

But they play a key role in many ecosystems, according to National Geographic. Male mosquitoes eat nectar and, in the process, pollinate all manner of plants. These insects are also an important food source for many other animals, including bats, birds, reptiles, amphibians and even other insects.