CRISPR-based gene drives for combatting malaria: Need for an early stage technology assessment.

The potential power of CRISPR-based gene drives makes it necessary to engage in science and technology assessment already in early stages of research and development. In order to argue for efforts to address this urgent need, gene drives to combat malaria-transmitting mosquitoes are discussed using the concept of prospective technology assessment. First, development risks are described, followed by considerations about anticipatable risks and irreversible consequences, as well as unforeseeable effects and uncertainties. Afterwards, fundamental problems in connection with the development of gene drives against malaria mosquitoes are raised. Opportunities for shaping technology are briefly discussed, before alternatives, in particular the World Health Organization’s elimination strategy, are considered. Finally, several normative questions are put forward.

The potential power of CRISPR-based gene drives makes it necessary to engage in science and technology assessment already in early stages of research and development. In order to argue for efforts to address this urgent need, gene drives to combat malaria-transmitting mosquitoes are discussed using the concept of prospective technology assessment. First, development risks are described, followed by considerations about anticipatable risks and irreversible consequences, as well as unforeseeable effects and uncertainties. Afterwards, fundamental problems in connection with the development of gene drives against malaria mosquitoes are raised. Opportunities for shaping technology are briefly discussed, before alternatives, in particular the World Health Organization’s elimination strategy, are considered. Finally, several normative questions are put forward.

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