Radgil2: X-rays as a method to prevent outbreaks caused by the Tiger Mosquito

Is there a way to combat the spread of dangerous diseases such as Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya without relying on insecticides? The answer comes from X-ray technology, which now finds a powerful ally in our Radgil2 medical device.

Drawing on our expertise in the healthcare sector with X-ray medical equipment, the University of Bologna and the CAA (Center for Agriculture and Environment) have chosen our system. Already a leader in blood irradiation for hospitals and laboratories, Radgil2 ensures precise and effective results even for large-scale mosquito sterilization.

The target is Aedes albopictus, better known as the Tiger Mosquito. Beyond being a daily nuisance due to its aggressive daytime activity, it is now considered the most invasive mosquito species in the world (present in 126 countries) and a dangerous virus vector.

The project is based on the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT), a form of “birth control” for insects.

Key steps:

• Mass rearing: At CAA laboratories, mosquitoes are bred in large numbers following strict international IAEA standards.
• High-tech sterilization: While still at the pupal stage, males are separated from females and exposed to a precise dose of X-rays using the Radgil irradiator.
• Optimal dosage: Research has shown that a 30 Gy dose renders males sterile while keeping them strong and competitive, ready to mate with wild females.
• Release: Transported under a strict cold chain to infested areas, the sterile males are released into the environment, where they mate with wild females. The result? Eggs that will never hatch, leading to a progressive population decline.