Eradication of Malaria Through Innovative Gene Drive Technology

December 18, 2023

Abdoulaye Diabate, an African scientist from Burkina Faso, has been awarded the 2023 Falling Walls Prize for Science and Innovation Management for his groundbreaking research on a gene drive technology aimed at eliminating malaria and its carriers, female Anopheles mosquitoes.

Innovative Approach

Diabate’s technique involves altering the genes of mosquitoes, particularly females responsible for transmitting malaria. Through gene drive technology, genetically modified male mosquitoes are released, preventing female mosquitoes from producing viable female offspring. This approach aims to reduce malaria transmission by depleting the female mosquito population.

How Gene Drive Technology Works

Release of Genetically Modified Males: Genetically modified male mosquitoes are introduced into the environment.
Prevention of Female Offspring: These modified males carry genes that hinder the production of viable female offspring by female mosquitoes.
Population-wide Impact: Over time, the gene-edited mosquitoes spread across the entire mosquito population, reducing malaria transmission.

Advantages and Sustainability

Diabate highlights the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of this method compared to traditional malaria control interventions. The genetically modified mosquitoes play an active role in reducing malaria transmission without requiring constant human intervention.

Timeframe for Implementation

While the technology holds immense promise, Diabate acknowledges that it may take several more years before it is ready for widespread implementation.

Overwhelming Burden

Africa bears the brunt of the global malaria burden, accounting for 96% of the total 619,000 deaths worldwide in 2021. Children under the age of five represent 80% of these deaths, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Criticisms and Advocacy

Despite the promising nature of gene drive technology, health authorities and advocacy groups raise concerns about potential ecological impacts. Some groups, like Save Our Seeds (SOS), caution against the unpredictable consequences of manipulating or exterminating a species, emphasizing the importance of every living creature in maintaining ecosystem balance.

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