Using CRISPR technology to control mosquito populations that spread diseases.
Official title: Advancing CRISPR-Based Genome Editing Strategies for managing Aedes aegypti mosquito populations
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11027104 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at new ways to use gene editing to help control the population of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which spread diseases like Zika and dengue, by creating modified mosquitoes that can help reduce the number of these disease-carrying insects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | November 13, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $441,502 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AI187493-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11027104 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals living in regions where Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are prevalent and where mosquito-borne diseases are a significant health concern.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not live in areas affected by Aedes aegypti or who are not at risk for mosquito-borne diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced CRISPR-based techniques to manage Aedes aegypti mosquito populations, which are responsible for transmitting diseases like Zika, dengue, and chikungunya. The project explores innovative methods such as the genetic sterile insect technique (pgSIT) and CRISPR gene drives to create genetically modified mosquitoes that can reduce disease transmission. By generating sterile male mosquitoes or altering wild populations, the goal is to significantly decrease the number of mosquitoes capable of spreading these viruses. This approach aims to provide a sustainable solution to a major public health challenge.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a significant reduction in the incidence of mosquito-borne diseases, improving public health outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results using CRISPR technology for mosquito population control, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lopez Del Amo, Victor — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Lopez Del Amo, Victor
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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.