Wolbachia as a Biological Control Agent Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Wolbachia is a genus of intracellular bacteria that infects a wide
range of arthropods, including a significant number of insect species.
Initially discovered in Culex pipiens mosquitoes in 1924, Wolbachia
has since gained considerable attention for its potential use in
controlling vector-borne diseases such as dengue, Zika, chikungunya,
and yellow fever. This naturally occurring endosymbiont has
shown remarkable capabilities in modifying host reproductive biology
and limiting viral replication within vectors. These properties make
Wolbachia an appealing candidate for biological control strategies
aimed at reducing the incidence of mosquito-borne diseases. Unlike
chemical insecticides, which pose environmental risks and promote
resistance, Wolbachia-based interventions offer a more sustainable
and ecologically friendly solution.