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Insect-selective carbamate insecticide sparing mammals

Agriculture & Food SystemsBiotech & PharmaWater & EnvironmentLab validated

This technology consists of a new class of carbamate insecticides designed to kill mosquitoes while remaining non-toxic to humans. It works by targeting a specific enzyme in the insect's nervous system known as acetylcholinesterase, using a molecular structure that selectively binds to the insect version of the enzyme but ignores the human version. These chemical compounds are particularly effective for treating surfaces where human contact is frequent, offering a safer alternative to traditional broad-spectrum pesticides.

What you could build

A specialized chemical coating for mosquito nets and indoor wall sprays designed for use in malaria-prone regions or high-density residential areas.

Who in Virginia should care

Virginia-based chemical manufacturers or global health NGOs with a presence in the DC-Northern Virginia corridor would find this relevant for vector control programs.

Readiness: Lab validated

Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.

Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.

The record

Inventors
Paul Carlier, Jeffrey Bloomquist, Sally Paulson, Eric Wong
Granted
December 31, 2013
Status
Granted patent
Patent number
8618162

Ready to talk?

Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology.

VTIP contact coming shortly

Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.