Target Malaria launches free video game on how to develop genetically modified mosquitoes to fight malaria
LONDON, UK, December 5, 2024 /African Media Agency (AMA)/ – Non-profit research consortium Target Malaria has launched an educational video game called “Target Malaria: The Game”. The game, available for free in French and English on Itch.io, invites players to take on the role of a lab technician specializing in genetic modification of mosquitoes. This interactive tool provides a hands-on introduction to molecular biology that engages players of all ages and backgrounds Both could explore the potential of genetically modified mosquitoes as promising tools in the fight against malaria.
Developed in partnership with independent game developer Michael Marston, Target Malaria: The Game runs seamlessly on gaming PCs and low-spec systems for easy use in low-connection environments.
Currently it has two modules, each mission requires speed and precision, and players can earn points for accuracy:
- exist”microinjection”, players simulate injecting DNA solution into mosquito embryos.
- exist “GM Screening”players sort fluorescent genetically modified mosquito larvae.
“The game is set up to simulate Target Malaria’s laboratory at Imperial College London, allowing people to gain a realistic understanding of the scientific principles and techniques of molecular biology,” said Louise Marston, a senior laboratory technician at Imperial College London who came up with the idea. the idea for the game and is its developer. Scientific advisor for its development.
“We tested Targeted Malaria: game at a science event in the UK earlier this year. It sparks meaningful conversations about the scientific discovery process for targeted malaria. We are delighted to now make it public,” added Morgane Danielou, Global Head of Communications at Target Malaria.
“We hope video game enthusiasts, tech enthusiasts and science students will use this unique tool to learn more about malaria and its devastating impact on African communities and economies,” said Michael Marston.
Target Malaria: The Game can also be used for training purposes in mosquito genetic modification laboratories. Through this interactive tool, Target Malaria hopes to further share its technology and make its research findings available to the public at large.
As part of its mission, target malaria Cost-effective and sustainable genetic technologies are being pioneered, e.g. gene driveto complement existing malaria interventions. Stakeholder engagement is at the heart of its work and over the years the research consortium has developed a range of creative science communication tools. These include: moz drivea card game showcasing gene drive technology; “swarm”, a sonification technology developed with British composer Jamie Perera; and interactive theater performance In Burkina Faso, the purpose and phases of the project were explained.
Distributor african media agency On behalf of Target Malaria Organization.
Notes for editors: How to Download Target Malaria: The Game
Download the game from the Target Malaria page on Itch.io: https://targetmalaria.itch.io/target-malaria-the-game
Open the downloaded file “TargetMalariaTheGameInstaller” and execute it.
A pop-up window “Game Setup Wizard” will appear on the screen. Accept the license agreement and click Next (multiple times). If you want to create a shortcut on your desktop, check the relevant box before clicking Done.
Once setup is complete, the game will launch automatically. Choose your preferred language and start playing!
About Target Malaria
Target Malaria is a non-profit research consortium that develops and shares new, cost-effective and sustainable genetic technologies to engineer mosquitoes and reduce malaria transmission. Our vision is to contribute to a world without malaria. We aim to achieve excellence in all areas of our work and to pave the way for responsible research and development of genetic technologies such as gene drives. www.targetmalaria.org
Target Malaria receives core funding from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Open Philanthropy. The main funded organization is Imperial College London, with partners across Africa, Europe and North America.
Media Contact
More information about Target Malaria:
e-mail: info@targetmalaria.org
website: www.targetmalaria.org
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