Synthetic gene drives as an anthropogenic evolutionary force

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary biology
• Genetics
• Bioengineering

Background:

• Genetic drive is a natural evolutionary force that alters population genetics by biasing allele transmission.
• Synthetic homing gene drives are human-mediated tools that mimic endogenous genetic drives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose the concept of "genetic welding" as a novel anthropogenic evolutionary force.
• To highlight the potential of genetic welding in conservation and public health.
• To emphasize the need for ethical considerations and further research into long-term evolutionary outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual framework development.
• Analogy to artificial and natural selection.
• Review of potential applications in biodiversity conservation and public health.

Main Results:

• Genetic welding, through synthetic gene drives, can induce rapid, heritable phenotypic changes in populations.
• This anthropogenic force parallels natural selection and artificial selection.
• Recognition of genetic drive as a fifth fundamental evolutionary force is proposed.

Conclusions:

• Synthetic gene drives represent a powerful anthropogenic evolutionary force termed "genetic welding."
• Genetic welding offers potential for significant applications but necessitates careful bioethical evaluation and research into long-term consequences.
• The study advocates for acknowledging genetic drive as a fundamental force shaping evolution.