Researchers Model Gene Drive Strategy to Control Invasive Fire Ants

A research team from Peking University and Cornell University developed a model showing how gene drive technology could help control populations of the invasive fire ant (Solenopsis invicta), a species notorious for its aggressive behavior and invasive capabilities. The study, published in Advanced Science, explored how gene drive could suppress fire ant populations by targeting genes linked to reproduction.

The model incorporated single-queen (monogyne) or multiple-queen (polygyne) colonies of fire ants. Simulations revealed that gene drive systems could completely eliminate polygyne colonies and significantly reduce monogyne populations. The researchers also suggested improvements to gene drive designs, such as dominant-sterile and two-target systems, to increase effectiveness and speed up suppression.

The findings suggest that while using gene drive in fire ants would be a complex and long-term endeavor, it offers a promising, sustainable solution for managing one of the world's most damaging invasive species. With further development, this strategy could also inform efforts to manage other invasive ant species, providing a powerful alternative to pesticide-based control.

For more information, read the article from Advanced Science.