Adressing concerns over gene drive based malaria control, through developments and testing of localization mechanisms

Gene drives offer a double-edged alternative to traditional methods of controlling malaria and other vector borne diseases. The appeal of gene drives rests on their extraordinary efficiency in suppressing vector populations and spreading alterations to diminish the ability to host Plasmodium. Concerns over gene drives center on their potential for unlimited spread across borders with uncontrolled effects on the global genetic commons. Localization safeguards offer a possible escape from this dilemma. While the global debate over the potential benefits and risks of gene drives rests on the assumption of uncontrolled spread, the workshop will specifically review on-going research and development programs that aim to develop mechanisms to control the spread of gene drives through technical safeguards. It will aim to evaluate the ability of these safeguarding design strategies to localize the spread of gene drives and provide recommendations for further research, testing and possible implementation.

Project details

Genetics and Genomics
Vector Control

Nov 2020 — Jan 2021

$14,724

Switzerland