Genome mapping of Malaria vector

Genome mapping of Malaria vector

Subject: Science and technology

Context: Tata Institute for Genetics and Society (TIGS), and Institute of Bioinformatics and Applied Biotechnology scientists have developme genome map of Malaria vector.

Concept:

• A new reference genome for the Asian malaria vector mosquito “Anopheles stephensi“.
• It found more than 3,000 genes that previously evaded scrutiny and which offer fresh gene-drive targets, play key roles in blood feeding and the metabolism of ingested blood meal, reproduction and immunity against microbial parasites
• It helped find 29 formerly undetected genes that play crucial roles in resistance to chemical insecticides.
• The findings also offer clues suggesting that the molecular basis of insecticide resistance may differ between sexes.
• It will have role in development of genetic control strategies of disease transmission
• It will help malaria biologists in India and the rest of the world, particularly in view of the national goal of malaria elimination in India by 2030

About CRISPR technology

CRISPR technology is a gene-editing tool which allows researchers to easily alter DNA sequences and modify gene function