Targeting mosquito larvae with new compounds to control disease spread

Disrupting the mosquito larval midgut using novel pH responsive compounds

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA · NIH-10907803

This study is working on new ways to help reduce mosquito populations by creating special compounds that can target and kill mosquito larvae, which could help prevent diseases like malaria and dengue.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TUCSON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10907803 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative compounds that specifically target the larval midgut of mosquitoes, which are known vectors for diseases like malaria and dengue. By creating pH-responsive compounds, the project aims to induce lethal effects in mosquito larvae, thereby reducing their populations and the transmission of mosquito-borne pathogens. The approach involves synthesizing and testing these compounds on two significant mosquito species, Anopheles stephensi and Aedes aegypti, to evaluate their effectiveness in controlling these pests.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals living in areas affected by mosquito-borne diseases, particularly those at risk of malaria and dengue.

Not a fit: Patients who do not live in regions where mosquito-borne diseases are prevalent may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective methods for controlling mosquito populations and reducing the spread of diseases they carry.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using targeted larvicides to control mosquito populations, indicating that this approach could be a viable method for disease prevention.

Where this research is happening

TUCSON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.