# Silencing Anopheles stephensi

> **NIH NIH R21** · INDIANA UNIVERSITY INDIANAPOLIS · 2024 · $237,750

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY
 Anopheles stephensi, a highly competent vector of urban malaria parasites, is rapidly spreading
across the globe. The ability of this mosquito to thrive in urban environments distinguishes it from other
primary malaria vectors that inhabit rural areas, making it a significant threat to millions of people who live in
cities. The long-term goal of our research program is to combat mosquitoes through the transfer of eco-
friendly RNAi-based mosquito gene silencing from the bench to the field. The objective of the proposed
research program is to evaluate the potential for RNAi yeast-based technologies to facilitate the control of A.
stephensi. These innovative new yeast insecticides have not yet been assessed in this dangerous mosquito.
The proposed investigation will test the hypothesis, which is supported by strong preliminary data, that
interfering RNA produced and delivered in Saccharomyces cerevisiae can be utilized as insecticidal agents
targeting A. stephensi. The specific aims are to 1) evaluate RNAi-based yeast attractive targeted sugar baits
(ATSBs) for control of A. stephensi, 2) identify RNAi yeast formulations that can be used to target A.
stephensi larvae, and 3) develop and assess A. stephensi female-specific RNAi yeast larvicides to facilitate
male sex-sorting. The aims will be pursued through a combination of laboratory and semi-field insecticide
trials that are designed to achieve the expected outcome of identifying a new class of RNAi yeast-based
insecticides to facilitate A. stephensi control. Moreover, the identification of female-specific larvicides will
permit the design of an RNAi yeast-based mass rearing diet for the production of fit adult males that can be
deployed in emerging population-based A. stephensi control programs. These innovative new RNAi tools will
help silence the threat of deadly A. stephensi mosquitoes.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10786551
- **Project number:** 1R21AI180409-01
- **Recipient organization:** INDIANA UNIVERSITY INDIANAPOLIS
- **Principal Investigator:** Molly Duman Scheel
- **Activity code:** R21 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $237,750
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2023-11-16 → 2025-10-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10786551

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10786551, Silencing Anopheles stephensi (1R21AI180409-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-01 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10786551. Licensed CC0.

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