Mosquitoes as Vaccine Vectors: A Breakthrough in Malaria Prevention?
Researchers at Leiden University Medical Center and Radboud University in the Netherlands have explored using genetically modified mosquitoes to deliver a malaria vaccine. The approach uses weakened Plasmodium falciparum parasites to induce immunity in participants without causing illness. In one clinical trial, participants were exposed to the parasite through mosquito bites. Two versions of the vaccine GA1 and GA2 were developed and tested. Results published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed that 89% of people who received the GA2 vaccine developed immunity, compared with only 13% of those who received the GA1 vaccine. The third group received a placebo. However, no one in this group developed immunity. While promising, the small sample size of 20 participants warrants larger trials. Experts have warned that the approach, while innovative, is not suitable for widespread use and would have to be developed into vials for large-scale distribution.
source: Al Jazeera
