Gene Mutation Makes 84% of Mice in the US Resistant to Poison

Rodent Resistance to Anticoagulants Under the Microscope

According to НВ — Техно: A study by pest control experts at Rutgers University in New Jersey has uncovered genetic mutations in rodents across the northeastern United States that grant them immunity to anticoagulant rodenticides. Analyzing 147 house mice (Mus musculus domesticus) collected from urban areas in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C., researchers found that 84% carried mutations enabling them to withstand poisons. Additionally, 35% of 143 Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) samples also harbored mutations in the Vkorc1 gene.

Anticoagulants are the most widely used rodenticides in the US. However, the study revealed that 69% of house mice had either the L128S or Y139C mutation, both of which are documented as poison-resistance genes. As researcher Jin-Jia Yu explained,

“We found that resistance appears to be far more common in house mice than many had assumed.”

Growing Challenges in Rodent Control

Pest management professionals have long observed that controlling rodent populations is becoming increasingly difficult, even when using potent rodenticides.

“As resistance becomes more widespread, it becomes even more critical to adopt science-based management strategies that protect both public health and the environment,”

noted researcher Chanlu Wang.

The study also highlighted behavioral differences: house mice are neophilic, meaning they are attracted to new objects, while Norway rats are neophobic, showing caution and avoiding unfamiliar items. In some cases, rats have developed heightened neophobic behaviors in response to intensive control efforts, such as steering clear of bait stations.

These findings underscore the need for further research to develop new rodent control strategies that account for genetic changes in populations and ensure effective management.

The identified mutations suggest that traditional pest control methods may need updating to keep pace with evolutionary changes. This could drive the development of innovative, science-based approaches that consider both genetic and behavioral factors. Responding appropriately to these shifts could help maintain the effectiveness of control measures while reducing risks to human health and the environment.