Scientists from the University of California Riverside have decoded the " attack mechanism " of mosquitoes by demonstrating that the carbon dioxide expired by humans and the odors emitted by their skin (including lactic acid, uric acid and ammonia ) attract these annoying insects. The results of their research, published in the journal "Cell" (" Targeting a Dual Detector of Skin and CO2 to Modify Host Seeking "), revealed that mosquitoes distinguish these two substances from all the odors present in nature thanks to cpA neurons . These cells, in fact, represent the sensors through which they detect odors, thus allowing them to sense the presence of a human being even at a distance of 60-70 meters.
Scientists have also succeeded in isolating the substances that can divert the attention of these insects. This discovery increases the ability to chemically deactivate the mosquito detection system, reducing human attraction.
Among the substances tested, two proved to be particularly interesting:
- ethanol pyruvate, with a fruity essence, which neutralized the capacity of cpA neurons and reduced the attraction of mosquitoes to the smell of human feet;
- cyclopentanone, with the smell of mint, which activated the cpA neurons, causing the trapped mosquitoes to fall.
These considerations lay the foundations for the development of a new generation of effective repellents to combat mosquitoes, especially in areas of the planet where they transmit diseases, such as malaria and dengue.
