MIT Genetically Engineers Mice to Stop Lyme Disease Transmission

Led by Associate Professor Kevin Esvelt, researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Media Lab's Sculpting Evolution group are pioneering groundbreaking research to combat Lyme disease. The initiative, called Mice Against Ticks, aims to reduce Lyme cases on Nantucket by genetically engineering wild white-footed mice to be immune to the infection.

In collaboration with Tufts epidemiologist Sam Telford, the team uses CRISPR gene editing technology to insert antibodies directly into mouse DNA. This approach creates what the researchers call a “heritable immunization,” which allows immunity to pass from one generation to the next. Unlike traditional vaccines, this method targets the disease cycle itself. If ticks feed on these immune mice, they can no longer carry Lyme bacteria.

Before lab work began, the researchers consulted Nantucket residents through multiple public meetings to ensure transparency and trust. “We need to do the science differently because we need to ensure that people have a voice, early enough, to actually influence the direction that the technology is developed,” Esvelt said. A controlled field trial on a private island will be the next step in this research.

For more information, read the article from MIT Media Lab.