An Ethical Overview of the CRISPR-Based Elimination of Anopheles gambiae to Combat Malaria

Present status of insecticide impacts and eco-friendly approaches for remediation-a review

Insecticides are indispensable for modern agriculture to ensuring crop protection and optimal yields. However, their excessive use raises concerns regarding their adverse effects on agriculture and the environment. This study examines the impacts of insecticides on agriculture and proposes remediation strategies. Excessive insecticide application can lead to the development of resistance in target insects, necessitating higher concentrations or stronger chemicals, resulting in increased production costs and disruption of natural pest control mechanisms. In addition, non-target organisms, such as beneficial insects and aquatic life, suffer from the unintended consequences of insecticide use, leading to ecosystem imbalances and potential food chain contamination. To address these issues, integrated pest management (IPM) techniques that combine judicious insecticide use with biological control and cultural practices can reduce reliance on chemicals. Developing and implementing selective insecticides with reduced environmental persistence is crucial. Promoting farmer awareness of responsible insecticide use, offering training and resources, and adopting precision farming technologies can minimize overall insecticide usage.

Targeting Aedes aegypti Metabolism with Next-Generation Insecticides

Aedes aegypti is the primary vector of dengue virus (DENV), zika virus (ZIKV), and other emerging infectious diseases of concern. A key disease mitigation strategy is vector control, which relies heavily on the use of insecticides. The development of insecticide resistance poses a major threat to public health worldwide. Unfortunately, there is a limited number of chemical compounds available for vector control, and these chemicals can have off-target effects that harm invertebrate and vertebrate species. Fundamental basic science research is needed to identify novel molecular targets that can be exploited for vector control. Next-generation insecticides will have unique mechanisms of action that can be used in combination to limit selection of insecticide resistance. Further, molecular targets will be species-specific and limit off-target effects. Studies have shown that mosquitoes rely on key nutrients during multiple life cycle stages. Targeting metabolic pathways is a promising direction that can deprive mosquitoes of nutrition and interfere with development. Metabolic pathways are also important for the virus life cycle. Here, we review studies that reveal the importance of dietary and stored nutrients during mosquito development and infection and suggest strategies to identify next-generation insecticides with a focus on trehalase inhibitors.