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Can germ warfare torpedo the mosquito?

Article Abstract:

Mosquitos which transmit malaria are becoming increasingly resistant to pesticides, while the malarial parasites which they carry are becoming increasingly resistant to antimalarial drugs. Against this background, some scientists feel that it would be appropriate to spray genetically engineered bacteria on to swamps and lakes to kill mosquitos. However, others are concerned about the possible dangers of releasing a microbe which is deliberately designed to kill another living species.

Research, Bacterial genetics, Mosquitoes, Biological insect control, Mosquito control

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Bad news for this bacterium

Article Abstract:

An oral vaccine against Salmonella typhi - the typhoid fever bacterium - which is as successful as the injection and lasts for three years has been developed at the Swiss Serum and Vaccine Institute in Berne and marketed by Evans Medical under the trade name 'Vivotif.' It comprises a living organism which has been altered to collect a substance so that cells die and protective antibodies are released. It has been tested in Chile and Egypt, where the disease is endemic.

Health aspects, Care and treatment, Product development, Prevention, Typhoid fever, Bacterial vaccines, Salmonella typhosa, Salmonella typhi, vivotif

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Pasteur: how they milked a legend

Article Abstract:

Louis Pasteur is widely seen as one of the greatest scientists ever, even though he used methods which would now be considered unethical and dangerous. His work formed the basis for much of modern biology, and he established principles of immunisation which are still very relevant. However, recent revelations about his research methods have damaged his reputation slightly.

Influence, Beliefs, opinions and attitudes, Scientists, Pasteur, Louis

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