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Gene drive in species complexes: defining target organisms
John B Connolly1, Jörg Romeis2, Yann Devos3
1Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, Silwood Park, Buckhurst Road, Sunninghill, Ascot, SL5 7PY, UK.
Trends in Biotechnology
|July 22, 2022
Summary
Engineered gene drives for malaria vector control may spread to non-target species. Environmental risk assessments must consider gene flow within species complexes to balance health and biodiversity goals.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Ecology
- Public Health
Background:
- Engineered gene drives are being developed to control mosquito malaria vectors.
- Mosquitoes can exist in species complexes, including vector and nonvector species capable of producing fertile hybrids.
- This biological compatibility allows for vertical gene drive transfer (VGDT) to sibling species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the environmental risks associated with engineered gene drives in mosquito species complexes.
- To explore the implications of VGDT to both vector and nonvector species.
- To inform risk assessment strategies for gene drive technologies.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on gene drive technology and mosquito reproductive biology.
- Analysis of potential gene flow pathways within species complexes.
- Consideration of ecological impacts on target and non-target organisms.
Main Results:
- VGDT to other vector species could enhance malaria control efforts.
- VGDT to nonvector species may pose risks to biodiversity.
- Species complexes require nuanced risk assessments beyond traditional transgene evaluations.
Conclusions:
- Environmental risk assessment for gene drives must account for species complexes.
- Balancing human health benefits with biodiversity conservation is crucial.
- Incorporating species complex dynamics offers greater flexibility in assessing VGDT impacts.
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