New Class of Natural Product Derived Mosquitocides

Inventors at the University of Arizona have discovered novel methods of synthesis and compounds derived from natural substances that have a strong larvicidal effect on Aedes and Anopheles larvae. The synthesis can be done in only a few steps and the compounds show a high degree of chemical specificity.

Background:
Numerous diseases are spread by mosquitoes including Dengue virus, a mosquito-borne virus that infects roughly 250 million humans per year. Larviciding can be an effective strategy of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) where mosquito larvae are terminated before reaching maturation.

Applications:

• Mosquitocides
• Larvicides
• Global health
• Agriculture

Advantages:

• Results in high mosquito larvae mortality rates
• Provides a high degree of chemical specificity
• Requires only a few steps
• Mild reaction conditions and high yields
• Results in minimal impact on the environment