DHAKA: Scientists in the U.S. say they've created a new strain of mosquito that could eventually help eradicate malaria.

Researchers at the University of California used a gene editing technique to insert DNA into the germ line of the Anopheles stephensi mosquito -- a leading vector of the disease, reports the CNN.

They found the gene stopped the transmission of malaria through 99.5% of their offspring, according to a statement on the university's website. The research was published in the early online edition of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the statement said.

"This opens up the real promise that this technique can be adapted for eliminating malaria," said Anthony James, Distinguished Professor of molecular biology & biochemistry and microbiology and molecular genetics at UC's Irvine campus.

To change the genetic makeup of the mosquitoes, scientists used the CRISPR gene-editing tool, which allows access to a cell's nucleus to remove DNA, replace mutated genes, or insert new ones.

Further testing is needed -- as well as potential field studies -- but the scientists say this is a "significant first step."

BDST: 2050 HRS, NOV 23, 2015
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