Authors:

Arnold Irungu

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About Paper:

Malaria remains a leading cause of death globally, despite vector control efforts. New interventions are needed to eradicate the disease. A CRISPR-Cas9-based gene drive strain, AcNosCd-1, was developed to target Anopheles coluzzii, introducing anti-parasite genes while disrupting the cardinal gene, resulting in a visible red-eye phenotype. Our research investigates whether this ocular malformation affects visual acuity by assessing diving behavior under different light intensities as well as the lowest possible light intensity that the mosquito larvae react to. We will test genetically modified (GM) and wild-type larvae in the L3 stage. Using a light meter, we will measure light intensities of dim (104.5 lux), medium (518 lux), and bright (1240 lux). Larvae will acclimate to light for 3-5 minutes, then the light will be turned off and on. What will be recorded will be the time the larvae take to dive down and how long they take to rise back up to the surface. This experiment will determine if GM larvae respond differently to shadows compared to wild-type larvae. Significant differences in reaction and recovery times could indicate that genetic modification affects light perception and depth regulation, potentially impacting survival and behavior in natural environments. A Novel Method of Drosophila Sleep Tracking via AI-Driven Temperature Analysis Toru Iseki

Source:

UC Davis / VM: Pathology, Micro, & Immun / 2025

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Co-authors:

Arnold Irungu