Exploring the Scope and Status of Biological Interventions in Malaria Control

Malaria is a major health concern worldwide, with an estimated 282 million infections and 610,000 deaths in 2024. Plasmodium parasites, spread by female Anopheles mosquitoes, are the cause. Several interventions, such as indoor residual spraying, insecticide-treated bed nets, and antimalarial drugs, have reduced transmission; however, challenges such as insecticide resistance, environmental concerns, and climate change have led to the exploration of alternative approaches. To address these limitations, biological control, which involves the use of natural organisms and biological agents to target mosquito vectors, is increasingly accepted as a viable solution. This method involves viruses, fungi, microbial pathogens, natural predators, alkaloids, essential oils, and plants with larvicidal properties. In addition, genetic techniques such as the sterile insect technique and genetically modified mosquitoes offer new approaches to managing mosquito populations. Additionally, entomopathogenic fungi are of particular interest because they can infect and kill mosquito vectors. In the present narrative review, an overview of existing biological approaches and current research progress that may enhance intervention strategies for sustainable malaria control and eventual eradication is presented.