Experts: Gene Drives Offer Sustainable Management fo Vector-Borne Diseases

Gene drive is a tool that can help mitigate diseases. Malaria and Dengue are transmitted by mosquitoes, an insect that is a threat to public health according to Dr. Chun Hong Chen of the Institute of Infectious Disease and Vaccinology of the National Health Research Institutes in Taiwan. When an infected person is bitten by a mosquito, the mosquito becomes the virus' vector. Once it lands and bites other people, they also become infected. The cycle continues and the diseases spread, sometimes uncontrollably. Traditional methods such as clean-up drives and chemical fogging are currently being used to control the mosquito populations, but these are expensive and labor-intensive, said Dr. Chun. Gene drive is a more sustainable and cost-efficient solution. "There will be less need for repetitive releases once gene drive is developed. Compared with the original and traditional suppression method, it may be more economical. With its design, it will only affect specific species," Dr. Chun stated.

Dr. Maria Vittoria Mancini of the Polo di Genomica of the Genetica e Biologia in Italy supported the statements of her co-speakers. Aside from the advantages of gene drive, Dr. Mancini also explained the technology's limitations such as the reduced efficacy of the technology over time, public perception and ethical concerns, international regulations, and the ecological impacts. While there is an increasing need for additional innovation in vector control interventions, a transparent, inclusive, and well-informed discussion for responsible evaluations and development of genetic control technologies is also crucial. "The main aim of scientists, developers, and regulators is to develop the safest and most effective technology through responsible science and thorough risk assessments for every single step of development, testing, and potentially the application of the technology," Dr. Mancini said.