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Researchers Develop Antimalarial Bed Nets Targeting Parasites in Mosquitoes

New bed-net prototypes disrupt malaria transmission by embedding drugs that kill parasites within mosquitoes, offering a scalable solution to insecticide resistance.

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Overview

  • Two lead compounds integrated into bed-net prototypes achieve 100% Plasmodium parasite kill at very low concentrations and retain activity for at least one year.
  • The compounds remain effective when applied to mosquitoes up to four days before infection, reducing their potential to become infectious.
  • Unlike traditional insecticide-treated nets, this approach targets the parasite without killing mosquitoes, reducing resistance risks and extending net lifespan.
  • Prototypes include polyester nets coated with antimalarial solutions and polyethylene nets embedded with drugs via hot-melt extrusion for sustained release.
  • The cost-effective production methods and compatibility with existing net infrastructure position the technology for scalable deployment in malaria-endemic regions.