Researchers from LSTM have found that a single genetic
mutation causes resistance to DDT and pyrethroids (an insecticide class used in
mosquito nets). With the continuing rise of resistance the research, published
in the journal Genome Biology, is key as scientists say that this knowledge
could help improve malaria control strategies.
The researchers, led by Dr Charles Wondji, used a wide range
of methods to narrow down how the resistance works, finding a single mutation
in the GSTe2 gene, which makes insects break down DDT so it’s no longer toxic.
They have also shown that this gene makes insects resistant to pyrethroids
raising the concern that GSTe2 gene could protect mosquitoes against the major
insecticides used in public health.