Genetic Changes Threaten Malaria Control
The research showed that central African mosquito populations are genetically connected and that West African populations are relatively isolated.
Malaria continues to devastate Africa, with the World Health Organization estimating more than 569,000 deaths across the continent in 2023 alone. Photo/Courtesy
By Juliet Jerotich
New Scientific Breakthrough
The battle against malaria has taken a significant shift following researchers from the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) and international collaborators identifying how genetic adaptations of Africa’s most lethal malaria vector are undermining control efforts.
In a public release, KEMRI explained that even though these fast-changing genes present a huge challenge to presently used strategies such as the application of insecticides, they also present challenges for finding new solutions that may transform the process of eradicating malaria.
Large-Scale Genetic Study
Researchers examined scores of mosquito samples collected from 16 countries in Africa, some dating as far back as 1927. With such a wide geographic and temporal scope, scientists were able to chart the evolutionary history of the mosquitoes.
The findings, according to KEMRI, present unprecedented information on the genetic variation in populations of mosquitoes, how they are structured within and across regions, and how resistant they have proven to control efforts.
Regional Differences in Resistance
The research showed that central African mosquito populations are genetically connected and that West African populations are relatively isolated. This explains why interventions proven effective in one part of the continent do not work in another, even against the same species.
Dr. Eric Ochomo, the project leader of the Kenyan portion, noted that resistance mutations discovered in the 1960s have further accelerated. This verifies that the species adapts rapidly to any new means of control, which makes malaria prevention a moving target.
Potential for Advanced Gene Technologies
The research also revealed a unique genetic marker for Anopheles funestus, the suspect mosquito. Significantly, this very same marker is currently under testing in Anopheles gambiae, another primary vector of malaria, through leading-edge gene drive technology.
Scientists hope this find will accelerate the use of biological breakthroughs to stop transmission outright, demoting insecticides.
Why Anopheles funestus Matters
Malaria continues to devastate Africa, with the World Health Organization estimating more than 569,000 deaths across the continent in 2023 alone.
Among the many mosquito species, Anopheles funestus stands out as one of the most dangerous. Its relatively long life span and strong preference for human blood make it a highly efficient transmitter of the malaria parasite compared to other vectors.
KEMRI’s Commitment to Solutions
KEMRI Acting Director General Prof. Elijah Songok has hailed the research as a landmark in African-led science. He reaffirmed that the institution is dedicated to pursuing science-driven solutions and global partnerships to accelerate malaria elimination in Kenya and the region.
“This achievement is a milestone, showing that Africa can generate scientific information that has an impact on global health,” said Prof. Songok.
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