Finding new ways to control mosquito populations
Official title: Targeting a reductive dehalogenase as a new strategy for controlling mosquito populations
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11037192 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special enzyme that helps control mosquito populations, especially the ones that spread malaria, and it aims to find new ways to reduce these mosquitoes by blocking this enzyme, which could lead to better methods for fighting mosquito-borne diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | November 12, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $211,038 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AI188223-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037192 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals living in areas affected by malaria and other diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not reside in malaria-endemic regions or who are not at risk of mosquito-borne diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a specific enzyme that plays a role in managing mosquito populations, particularly the Anopheles gambiae, which is a key vector for malaria. The study explores how inhibiting this enzyme can lead to decreased mosquito populations by preventing the accumulation of certain chemicals that affect their fertility. By using insights gained from fruit flies, the research aims to develop innovative strategies for mosquito control that differ from traditional methods. The approach could potentially lead to more effective ways to combat diseases transmitted by mosquitoes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new methods for controlling mosquito populations, thereby reducing the spread of malaria and other vector-borne diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar biological mechanisms in other insect populations, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rokita, Steven E — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Rokita, Steven E
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.