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DISARMING
THE MOSQUITO
By combining basic science with translational research, we develop new tools that disarm and DISABLE MOSQUITOES, ONE OF OUR WORLD'S GREATEST public health ThREATS
our mission
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creating a world where communities are free from the threat of mosquito-borne diseases
Our group studies how mosquitoes and microbes interact to develop innovative tools—like disease-resistant mosquitoes, transmission-blocking vaccines, and targeted biopesticides—that can stop the spread of deadly infections. We’re driven by the goal of protecting millions of people worldwide while training the next generation of scientists to continue this life-saving work.
Latest News
from the dg group
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Our Target Organism
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Laboratory Research
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Field Research
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Our Product
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Sampling in the Field
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Our Product
research areas
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Mosquito - Pathogen - Microbe interactions
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Mosquitoes can only spread diseases like malaria and viral infections after the pathogens survive and grow inside their bodies.
Our research examines how mosquitoes, the pathogens they carry, and the microbes living in and around them interact—so we can find weak points in this process. By studying these interactions, we aim to block disease transmission by strengthening mosquito immunity, disrupting proteins the pathogens depend on, and using helpful microbes to stop pathogens from developing.
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Genetically modifed mosquitoes to stop disease transmission
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Current mosquito-control methods require constant maintenance and aren’t enough to stop the spread of disease.
We are developing genetically engineered mosquitoes that can’t transmit pathogens by strengthening their immune systems. Using gene drive technology, these protective traits can spread through wild mosquito populations, creating a long-lasting and environmentally friendly way to reduce disease transmission.
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Microbial biopesticides
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Mosquitoes are becoming resistant to chemical insecticides, making it harder to control diseases they spread.
We are developing eco-friendly microbial biopesticides that use naturally occurring bacteria to safely and effectively kill mosquitoes, including those that no longer respond to traditional chemicals. Our leading candidate, Chromobacterium Csp_P, can kill both larval and adult mosquitoes and even helps reverse insecticide resistance, restoring the power of existing control tools.
DEVELOPING INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES TO STOP THE SPREAD OF MOSQUITO-BORN DISEASES AND TO IMPROVE PUBLIC HEALTH ACROSS THE GLOBE
why this work matters
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