Scientists Genetically Modify Bacteria in Mosquitoes for Malaria ControlMike Barrett In order to kill malaria in mosquitoes, scientists are genetically modifying a bacterium called Pantoea agglomerans so that it secretes toxic proteins. These toxic proteins are not harmful to humans or the mosquito itself, but they do kill off the malaria parasite. One of the toxic compounds blocks the malaria from attaching to a crucial protein which allows it to survive, while another compound may penetrate the malarias protective outer layer, ultimately leading to its death. There are not one, but several anti-malaria compounds the bacterium secretes . . . Each acts by a different mechanism and makes it much more difficult for the parasite to develop a resistance to it, explained Dr. Marcelo Jacobs-Lorena, senior author of the study and a professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Is this a good method for malaria control? The issue with all of this? We simply do not know the potential outcomes that could arise from such manipulation of nature. As for present day genetic modification, all signs show that so far all we are doing is killing the food supply. Needless to say, the scientists know that it will be difficult to gain approval for this genetic modification regarding mosquitoes and malaria control. It may take quite a bit of effort, Jacobs-Lorena said. People are predisposed against genetically modified foods and plants. Imagine what kind of challenges well have with this. Are we really predisposed against genetically modified foods and plants, or are we simply not blind to the devastating prices genetically modified organisms, such as Monsantos GMO corn, come with? Viruses and the GM Insect Flying Vaccine Solution Explore More: This article first appeared at Natural Society, an excellent resource for health news and vaccine information. You can support this information by voting on Reddit HERE 