A new open-access study, supported by the REACT Horizon Europe project, introduces an advanced decision-support system for fine-scale planning of the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) against Mediterranean fruit flies. By enhancing the PESTonFARM model, researchers Slawomir A. Lux and Marco Colacci enable localized simulations using real-world data from Greece. Their findings show how topography, fruit distribution, and release methods affect SIT success—offering critical guidance for pest control in complex agricultural landscapes.

The Metabolomics Academy, hosted by CNR’s Institute of Bioinformatics and Structural Biology, offered a deep dive into metabolomics through a One Health lens. Among the highlights was Marcella Bonanomi’s presentation on the REACT project, detailing metabolite extraction techniques in tephritid fruit flies and their implications for pest control via the Sterile Insect Technique. The event fostered dialogue between emerging scientists and seasoned researchers, reinforcing the role of metabolomics in addressing interconnected health challenges.

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking genetic tool to control Mediterranean fruit fly populations using a CRISPR-based system that converts females into sterile males or intersexes. This self-limiting method offers a scalable, cost-effective alternative to traditional pest control techniques.