Millions of Genetically Modified Mosquitoes May be Released in a Key West Neighborhood

Millions of genetically modified insects could be released in the Florida Keys if the UK biotech firm Oxitec's proposal is approved. The firm has proposed the release of genetically modified mosquitoes to help with current mosquito control efforts.

So what exactly is all of the fuss about? GMOs have received quite a bit of attention in recent years. Bt crops, for example, can naturally repel certain insects and so require less insecticides.

In this case, the mosquitoes possess what is called a "dominant lethal genetic system," according to Discover magazine. This means that, essentially, the mosquitoes die by themselves; the males carry inserted DNA which causes the mosquitoes to depend on a dietary supplement that can be found in the lab, but not in nature. When these mutants breed with normal females, their offspring also need the supplement and then die.

In recent years, mosquitoes have continued to spread the diseases, dengue and chikungunya, by biting and infecting people. Dengue causes muscle aches while chikungunya can cause joint pain and agonizing contortions, according to The Atlantic. While they're commonly tropical diseases, they've now taken hold in America's southern shore due to warming climates.

Oxitec's mosquitoes could be a means to combat the threat of these diseases. That said, there are those who are concerned with the release of genetically modified mosquitoes in residential areas.

"I think the science is fine, they definitely can kill mosquitoes, but the GMO issue still sticks as something of a thorny issue for the general public," said Phil Lounibos, who studies mosquito control at the Florida Medical Entomology Laboratory, in an interview with the AP.

The public has started a Change.org petition to fight the release of these mosquitoes. Already, there are over 143,000 signatures. Currently, Oxitec plans to release its mosquitoes in a Key West neighborhood this spring.

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