Detailed genome map of malaria vector

Scientists have unveiled the detailed genome of the malaria mosquito vector, revealing thousands of new genes vital for the development of genetic control strategies of disease transmission.

Daily Current Affairs Quiz 2021

In order to engineer advanced forms of defence against malaria transmission, including targeted CRISPR and gene drive–based strategies, scientists require intricate knowledge of the genomes of vector mosquitoes.

CRISPR technology is a gene-editing tool which allows researchers to easily alter DNA sequences and modify gene function.

They produced a new reference genome for the Asian malaria vector mosquito Anopheles stephensi.

With the newly upgraded Anopheles stephensi genome, the team unearthed more than 3,000 genes that previously evaded scrutiny and which offer fresh gene-drive targets, play key roles in blood feeding and the metabolism of ingested blood meal, reproduction and immunity against microbial parasites.

This reference genome should help malaria biologists in India, particularly in view of the national goal of malaria elimination in India by 2030.