Scholarly Literature
This is an aggregation of scholarly literature from peer-reviewed journals, bioRxiv , medRxiv and arXiv preprint servers focused on natural and engineered selfish genetic elements and genetic biocontrol. New citations are added as they appear. This content is intended for anyone interested in the scholarly literature on gene drive and genetic biocontrol.
Genetic engineering of sex chromosomes for batch cultivation of non-transgenic, sex-sorted males
19246S. R. Das, M. Maselko, A. Upadhyay and M. J. Smanski, PloS Genetics, 16:11. 2020-11-02 22:13:55.
The field performance of Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) is improved by sex-sorting and releasing only sterile males. This can be accomplished by resource-intensive separation of males from females by morphology. Alternatively, sex-ratio biasing genetic constructs can be used to selectively remove one sex without the need for manual or automated sorting, but the resulting genetically engineered (GE) control agents would be subject to additional governmental regulation. Here we describe and demonstrate a genetic method for the batch production of non-GE males. This method could be applied to generate the heterogametic sex (XY, or WZ) in any organism with chromosomal sex determination. We observed up to 100% sex-selection with batch cultures of more than 10(3) individuals. Using a stringent transgene detection assay, we demonstrate the potential of mass production of transgene free males. Author summary In this manuscript, we describe and demonstrate in a model system a new genetic engineering approach for producing sex-sorted, non-transgenic batches of an organism with genetic sex determination. This approach could impact pest control programs using Sterile Insect Technique.
Gene Drives across engineered fitness valleys: Modeling a design to prevent drive spillover.
14880F. J. H. de Haas and S. Otto, bioRxiv, 2020.10.29.360404. 2020-10-29 15:44:22.
We model a proposed drive system that transitions in time from a low threshold drive system (homing-based gene drive) to a high threshold drive system (underdominance) using daisy chain technology. This combination leads to a spatially restricted drive strategy while maintaining an attainable release threshold.
The Sterile Insect Technique: Success and Perspectives in the Neotropics
15185D. Perez-Staples, F. Diaz-Fleischer and P. Montoya, Neotropical Entomology, 14. 2020-10-28 15:12:56.
Here, we review SIT in the Neotropics and focus on particular recent successful cases of eradication of the Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann), as well as effective programs used against the Mexican fruit fly Anastrepha ludens (Loew), the New World screwworm fly Cochliomyia hominivorax (Coquerel)), and the Cactus moth Cactoblastis cactorum (Berg). We examine when SIT does not work and innovations that have made SIT more efficient and also highlight complimentary techniques that can be used in conjunction. We address potential candidate species that could be controlled through SIT, for example Philornis downsi Dodge & Aitken. Finally, we consider the impact of climate change in the context of the use of the SIT against these pests. Given the recent dramatic decline in insect biodiversity, investing in environmentally friendly means of pest control should be a priority. We conclude that SIT should be promoted in the region, and leadership and political will is needed for continued success of SIT in the Neotropics.
Cellular mechanisms regulating synthetic sex ratio distortion in the Anopheles gambiae germline
14790R. E. Haghighat-Khah, A. Sharma, M. R. Wunderlich, G. Morselli, L. A. Marston, C. Bamikole, A. Hall, N. Kranjc, C. Taxiarchi, I. Sharakhov and R. Galizi, Pathogens and Global Health, 114:370-378. 2020-10-20 20:24:19.
Meiotic cleavage of rDNA repeats, located in the sex chromosomes of A. gambiae SD males, affects the competitiveness of mature sperm to fertilize the female oocyte.
Vector-Focused Approaches to Curb Malaria Transmission in the Brazilian Amazon: An Overview of Current and Future Challenges and Strategies
15960E. M. Rocha, R. D. Katak, J. C. de Oliveira, M. D. Araujo, B. C. Carlos, R. Galizi, F. Tripet, O. Marinotti and J. A. Souza, Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease, 5. 2020-10-20 18:16:39.
Here we present an overview on both conventional and novel promising vector-focused tools to curb malaria transmission in the Brazilian Amazon. If well designed and employed, vector-based approaches may improve the implementation of malaria-control programs, particularly in remote or difficult-to-access areas and in regions where existing interventions have been unable to eliminate disease transmission. However, much effort still has to be put into research expanding the knowledge of neotropical malaria vectors to set the steppingstones for the optimization of conventional and development of innovative vector-control tools.
Progress Toward Zygotic and Germline Gene Drives in Mice
14852C. Pfitzner, M. A. White, S. G. Piltz, M. Scherer, F. Adikusuma, J. N. Hughes and P. Q. Thomas, The CRISPR Journal, 3:388-397. 2020-10-20 17:17:24.
Here, we investigated the efficiency of CRISPR-Cas9-based gene drives in Mus musculus by constructing "split drive" systems where gRNA expression occurs on a separate chromosome to Cas9, which is under the control of either a zygotic (CAG) or germline (Vasa) promoter.
Selfish genetic elements and male fertility
15183R. L. Verspoor, T. A. R. Price and N. Wedell, Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society B-Biological Sciences, 375:7. 2020-10-20 14:40:03.
Selfish genetic elements (SGEs) are diverse and near ubiquitous in Eukaryotes and can be potent drivers of evolution. Here, we discuss SGEs that specifically act on sperm to gain a transmission advantage to the next generation. The diverse SGEs that affect sperm often impose costs on carrier males, including damaging ejaculates, skewing offspring sex ratios and in particular reducing sperm-competitive success of SGE-carrying males. How males and females tolerate and mitigate against these costs is a dynamic and expanding area of research. The intense intra-genomic conflict that these selfish elements generate could also have implications for male fertility and spermatogenesis more widely. This article is part of the theme issue 'Fifty years of sperm competition'.
MGDrivE 2: A simulation framework for gene drive systems incorporating seasonality and epidemiological dynamics
14733S. L. Wu, J. B. Bennett, H. M. Sanchez C, A. J. Dolgert, T. M. Leon and J. M. Marshall, bioRxiv, 2020.10.16.343376. 2020-10-17 15:42:27.
We present MGDrivE 2 (Mosquito Gene Drive Explorer 2): an extension of and development from the MGDrivE 1 simulation framework that investigates the population dynamics of a variety of gene drive architectures and their spread through spatially-explicit mosquito populations.
Genetic engineering and bacterial pathogenesis against the vectorial capacity of mosquitoes
14721M. Qasim, H. M. Xiao, K. He, M. A. A. Omar, F. L. Liu, S. Ahmed and F. Li, Microbial Pathogenesis, 147:8. 2020-10-16 18:16:01.
Here we aimed to focus on the role of bacterial pathogenesis and molecular tactics for the management of mosquitoes and their vectorial capacity.
Stable Introduction of Plant-Virus-Inhibiting Wolbachia into Planthoppers for Rice Protection
19719J. T. Gong, Y. Li, T. P. Li, Y. Liang, L. Hu, D. Zhang, C. Y. Zhou, C. Yang, X. Zhang, S. S. Zha, X. Z. Duan, L. A. Baton, X. Y. Hong, A. A. Hoffmann and Z. Xi, Current Biology, 30:4837-4845.e5. 2020-10-10 12:20:07.
Progress has been made in developing the maternally inherited endosymbiotic bacterium Wolbachia as a tool for protecting humans from mosquito-borne diseases. In contrast, Wolbachia-based approaches have not yet been developed for the protection of plants from insect pests and their associated diseases, with a major challenge being the establishment of artificial Wolbachia infections expressing desired characteristics in the hemipterans that transmit the majority of plant viruses. Here, we report stable introduction of Wolbachia into the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens, the most destructive rice pest that annually destroys millions of hectares of staple crops. The Wolbachia strain wStri from the small brown planthopper, Laodelphax striatellus, was transferred to this new host, where it showed high levels of cytoplasmic incompatibility, enabling rapid invasion of laboratory populations. Furthermore, wStri inhibited infection and transmission of Rice ragged stunt virus and mitigated virus-induced symptoms in rice plants, opening up the development of Wolbachia-based strategies against major agricultural pests and their transmitted pathogens
Engineering the Composition and Fate of Wild Populations with Gene Drive
14731B. A. Hay, G. Oberhofer and M. Guo, Annual Review of Entomology, 2020-10-09 15:37:03.
We describe technologies under consideration, progress that has been made, and remaining technological hurdles, particularly with respect to evolutionary stability and our ability to control the spread and ultimate fate of genes introduced into populations.
Towards rangatiratanga in pest management? Maori perspectives and frameworks on novel biotechnologies in conservation
14653S. Palmer, O. R. Mercier and A. King-Hunt, Pacific Conservation Biology, 11. 2020-10-09 13:58:04.
We gathered Maori perspectives on novel biotechnological controls for pest wasps through three distinct studies. Study participants included tertiary students, businesses, and spiritual or religiously affiliated groups. All participants drew from their identities as Maori people to help identify their position on these issues.
Assessing the acoustic behaviour of Anopheles gambiae (s.l.) dsxF mutants: implications for vector control
14647M. P. Su, M. Georgiades, J. Bagi, K. Kyrou, A. Crisanti and J. T. Albert, Parasites and Vectors, 13:507. 2020-10-07 13:33:23.
We analysed sound emissions and acoustic preference in a doublesex mutant previously used to collapse Anopheles gambiae (s.l.) cages.
Yes, Irradiated Sterile Male Mosquitoes Can Be Sexually Competitive!
14645J. Bouyer and M. J. B. Vreysen, Trends in Parasitology, 2020-10-06 13:28:30.
Here, we argue that a reduction in quality of the produced sterile male insects is mostly related to the mass-rearing, handling, marking, and release processes, rather than radiation per se.
Microbiome Innovation in Agriculture: Development of Microbial Based Tools for Insect Pest Management
19716M. Qadri, S. Short, K. Gast, J. Hernandez and A. C.-N. Wong, Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 4. 2020-10-06 12:11:19.
This review emphasizes the potential and use of microbes in sustainable insect pest management. We first review the diverse insect traits shaped by insect-microbe associations that span nutrition, immunity, ecological interactions with natural enemy, insecticide resistance, and behavior. This is followed by discussing different microbiome manipulation approaches to alter pest traits, describing some of the opportunities and obstacles for each approach. We then highlight microbiomes as untapped chemical inventories to discover novel biopesticides, including plant-incorporated protectants and semiochemicals. The last topic covered is the use of beneficial microbes to improve mass-reared insects' performance for autocidal programs, including sterile insect technique and incompatible insect technique, in which we identify topics where data are limited or inconclusive, for future research.
Embracing Dynamic Models for Gene Drive Management
14596A. J. Golnar, E. Ruell, A. L. Lloyd and K. M. Pepin, Trends in Biotechnology, 2020-09-30 13:54:04.
We describe how quantitative tools can reduce risk uncertainty, streamline empirical research, guide risk management, and promote cross-sector collaboration throughout the process of gene drive technology development and implementation.
Gene Drive: Modern Miracle or Environmental Disaster
14491K. Brooks, Journal of Law, Technology and Policy, 2020-09-25 19:57:31.
This Note will show how gene drive technology fits imperfectly into the old regulatory framework through case studies. The Analysis will also describe how the different regulatory agencies handle similar gene drive-like organisms inconsistently, and the inherent danger of this approach considering upcoming developments in the field.
Resistance to natural and synthetic gene drive systems
14468T. A. R. Price, N. Windbichler, R. L. Unckless, A. Sutter, J.-N. Runge, P. A. Ross, A. Pomiankowski, N. L. Nuckolls, C. Montchamp-Moreau, N. Mideo, O. Y. Martin, A. Manser, M. Legros, A. M. Larracuente, L. Holman, J. Godwin, N. Gemmell, C. Courret, A. Buc, Journal of Evolutionary Biology, 2020-09-24 17:20:31.
This review summarizes our current knowledge of drive resistance in both natural and synthetic gene drives. We explore how insights from naturally occurring and synthetic drive systems can be integrated to improve the design of gene drives, better predict the outcome of releases and understand genomic conflict in genera
Active Genetic Neutralizing Elements for Halting or Deleting Gene Drives
14444X.-R. S. Xu, E. A. Bulger, V. M. Gantz, C. Klanseck, S. R. Heimler, A. Auradkar, J. B. Bennett, L. A. Miller, S. Leahy, S. S. Juste, A. Buchman, O. S. Akbari, J. M. Marshall and E. Bier, Molecular Cell, 2020-09-18 11:30:45.
Here we describe two self-copying (or active) guide RNA-only genetic elements, called e-CHACRs and ERACRs. These elements use Cas9 produced in trans by a gene drive either to inactivate the cas9 transgene (e-CHACRs) or to delete and replace the gene drive (ERACRs).
Dynamics of Wild and Sterile Mosquito Population Models with Delayed Releasing
14817L. M. Cai, International Journal of Bifurcation and Chaos, 30:15. 2020-09-15 17:16:03.
We extend the previous ODE models to the delayed releasing models in two different ways of releasing sterile mosquitos, where both constant and exponentially distributed delays are considered, respectively. By applying the theory and methods of delay differential equations, the effect of time delays on the stability of equilibria in the system is rigorously analyzed.
A CRISPR homing gene drive targeting a haplolethal gene removes resistance alleles and successfully spreads through a cage population
14387J. Champer, E. Yang, E. Lee, J. Liu, A. G. Clark and P. W. Messer, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 202004373. 2020-09-14 15:23:07.
Here, we present a CRISPR homing drive that was able to successfully spread to all individuals in a laboratory cage study in Drosophila melanogaster without any apparent evolution of resistance.
Underlying beliefs linked to public opinion about gene drive and pest-specific toxin for pest control
14331E. A. MacDonald, E. Edwards, J. Balanovic and F. Medvecky, Wildlife Research, 2020-09-08 18:03:31.
Public engagement that acknowledges and responds to these underlying beliefs, rather than a traditional campaign based on biodiversity and environmental gains, may be more effective at creating a constructive dialogue about if and how these tools should be used, and to avoid replicating the polarised debate about 1080.
Prospects and Pitfalls: Next-Generation Tools to Control Mosquito-Transmitted Disease
14366E. P. Caragata, S. Dong, Y. Dong, M. L. Simões, C. V. Tikhe and G. Dimopoulos, Annual Review of Microbiology, 74:455-475. 2020-09-08 15:57:19.
A diverse array of next-generation tools has been designed to eliminate mosquito populations or to replace them with mosquitoes that are less capable of transmitting key pathogens.
Generating single-sex litters: development of CRISPR-Cas9 genetic tools to produce all-male offspring
14343C. Douglas, V. Maciulyte, J. Zohren, D. M. Snell, O. A. Ojarikre, P. J. Ellis and J. M. A. Turner, bioRxiv, 2020.09.07.285536. 2020-09-07 18:52:30.
Using the mouse as a model, we developed a synthetic, two-part bicomponent strategy for generating all-male litters.
Suppressing evolution in genetically engineered systems through repeated supplementation
15188N. C. Layman, B. M. Tuschhoff, A. J. Basinski, C. H. Remien, J. J. Bull and S. L. Nuismer, Evolutionary Applications, 12. 2020-09-05 15:21:40.
Genetically engineered organisms are prone to evolve in response to the engineering. This evolution is often undesirable and can negatively affect the purpose of the engineering. Methods that maintain the stability of engineered genomes are therefore critical to the successful design and use of genetically engineered organisms. One potential method to limit unwanted evolution is by taking advantage of the ability of gene flow to counter local adaption, a process of supplementation. Here, we investigate the feasibility of supplementation as a mechanism to offset the evolutionary degradation of a transgene in three model systems: a bioreactor, a gene drive, and a transmissible vaccine.
Maternal Transmission Ratio Distortion in Two Iberian Pig Varieties
14894M. Vazquez-Gomez, M. M. de Hijas-Villalba, L. Varona, N. Ibanez-Escriche, J. P. Rosas, S. Negro, J. L. Noguera and J. Casellas, Genes, 11:16. 2020-09-05 13:58:00.
Although TRD can be a confounding factor in genetic mapping studies, this phenomenon remains mostly unknown in pigs, particularly in traditional breeds (i.e., the Iberian pig). We aimed to describe the maternal TRD prevalence and its genomic distribution in two Iberian varieties. No strong evidence of biological effects was found in genes with TRDLs. However, some biological processes could be affected by TRDLs, such as embryogenesis at different levels and lipid metabolism. These findings could provide useful insight into the genetic mechanisms to improve the swine industry, particularly in traditional breeds.
Inherently confinable split-drive systems in Drosophila
14294G. Terradas, A. B. Buchman, J. B. Bennett, I. Shriner, J. M. Marshall, O. S. Akbari and E. Bier, bioRxiv, 2020.09.03.282079. 2020-09-03 14:16:46.
Here, we test split gene-drive (sGD) systems in Drosophila melanogaster that were inserted into essential genes required for viability (rab5, rab11, prosalpha2) or fertility (spo11). I
Governing New Biotechnologies for Biodiversity Conservation: Gene Drives, International Law, and Emerging Politics
14258J. L. Reynolds, Global Environmental Politics, 20:28-48. 2020-08-31 14:28:38.
This article describes and analyzes the international law and politics of gene drives’ research, development, and possible use, with an emphasis on their potential biodiversity applications.
Gene Drive Dynamics in Natural Populations: The Importance of Density Dependence, Space, and Sex
15277S. Dhole, A. L. Lloyd and F. Gould, Annual Review of Ecology, Evolution, and Systematics, 51:505-531. 2020-08-28 21:09:09.
The spread of synthetic gene drives is often discussed in the context of panmictic populations connected by gene flow and described with simple deterministic models. Under such assumptions, an entire species could be altered by releasing a single individual carrying an invasive gene drive, such as a standard homing drive. While this remains a theoretical possibility, gene drive spread in natural populations is more complex and merits a more realistic assessment. The fate of any gene drive released in a population would be inextricably linked to the population’s ecology. Given the uncertainty often involved in ecological assessment of natural populations, understanding the sensitivity of gene drive spread to important ecological factors is critical. Here we review how different forms of density dependence, spatial heterogeneity, and mating behaviors can impact the spread of self-sustaining gene drives. We highlight specific aspects of gene drive dynamics and the target populations that need further research.
Chromosome drives via CRISPR-Cas9 in yeast
15025H. Xu, M. Han, S. Zhou, B.-Z. Li, Y. Wu and Y.-J. Yuan, Nature Communications, 11:4344. 2020-08-28 15:22:50.
Our results show that the entire Saccharomyces cerevisiae chromosome can be eliminated efficiently through only one double-strand break around the centromere via CRISPR-Cas9. As a proof-of-concept experiment of this CRISPR-Cas9 chromosome drive system, the synthetic yeast chromosome X is completely eliminated, and the counterpart wild-type chromosome X harboring a green fluorescent protein gene or the components of a synthetic violacein pathway are duplicated by sexual reproduction. We also demonstrate the use of chromosome drive to preferentially transmit complex genetic traits in yeast.
Evading evolution of resistance to gene drives
14174R. Gomulkiewicz, M. L. Thies and J. J. Bull, bioRxiv, 2020-08-27 14:29:17.
Here we develop mathematical and computational models to identify conditions under which suppression drives will evade resistance, even if resistance is present initially.
Novel combination of CRISPR-based gene drives eliminates resistance and localises spread
14172N. R. Faber, G. R. McFarlane, R. C. Gaynor, I. Pocrnic, C. B. A. Whitelaw and G. Gorjanc, bioRxiv, 2020-08-27 14:22:46.
We present HD-ClvR, a novel combination of CRISPR-based gene drives that eliminates resistance and localises spread. As a case study, we model HD-ClvR in the grey squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis), which is an invasive pest in the UK and responsible for both biodiversity and economic losses.
Next-generation gene drive for population modification of the malaria vector mosquito, Anopheles gambiae
14015R. Carballar-Lejarazú, C. Ogaugwu, T. Tushar, A. Kelsey, T. B. Pham, J. Murphy, H. Schmidt, Y. Lee, G. C. Lanzaro and A. A. James, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 202010214. 2020-08-24 12:38:12.
We show here that the Cas9/guide RNA-based gene-drive components of a genetically-engineered malaria mosquito vector, Anopheles gambiae, achieve key target product profile requirements for efficacy and performance.
A home and rescue gene drive forces its inheritance stably persisting in populations
14006N. P. Kandul, J. Liu, J. B. Bennett, J. M. Marshall and O. Akbari, bioRxiv, 2020.08.21.261610. 2020-08-23 17:46:58.
We demonstrate that HomeR can achieve nearly ~100% transmission enabling it to persist at genotypic fixation in several multi-generational population cage experiments, underscoring its long term stability.
Mixed knobs in corn cobs
14581P. Lamelza and M. A. Lampson, Genes and Development, 34:1110-1112. 2020-08-20 14:31:38.
In this issue of Genes & Development, Swentowsky and colleagues (pp. 1239-1251) show that two types of knobs, those composed of 180-bp and TR1 sequences, recruit their own novel and divergent kinesin-14 family members to form neocentromeres.
Distinct kinesin motors drive two types of maize neocentromeres
14578K. W. Swentowsky, J. I. Gent, E. G. Lowry, V. Schubert, X. Ran, K. F. Tseng, A. E. Harkess, W. H. Qiu and R. K. Dawe, Genes and Development, 34:1239-1251. 2020-08-20 14:24:50.
Here we describe a second kinesin-14 gene, TR-1 kinesin (Trkin), that is required to mobilize neocentromeres made up of the minor tandem repeat TR-1.
Lateral Gene Transfer Mechanisms and Pan-genomes in Eukaryotes
13939S. J. Sibbald, L. Eme, J. M. Archibald and A. J. Roger, Trends in Parasitology, 2020-08-19 17:12:29.
Here we review evidence for known and potential mechanisms of LGT into diverse eukaryote lineages with a particular focus on protists, and we discuss trends emerging from recently reported examples. We also explore the potential role of LGT in generating ‘pan-genomes’ in diverse eukaryotic species.
Self-limiting paratransgenesis
W. Huang, S. B. Wang and M. Jacobs-Lorena, PloS Neglected Tropical Diseases, 14:9. 2020-08-18 18:48:31.Our results suggest that initial field trials can make use of this reversible system whereby released recombinant bacteria expressing anti-plasmodial compounds from a plasmid revert to wild type at a predictable rate.
Towards Responsive Eco-technology: The Development of a Male Sex-biased Mouse
24607W. Kamau, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 2020-08-16 08:55:45.
CRISPR-Cas systems have catalyzed the emergence of several synthetic population management strategies, like gene drives, for controlling pests and disease vectors. As these technologies garner greater visibility in both general and regulatory audiences, questions have arisen about the invasiveness of drive strategies and have underscored a need for community guidance in designing population management technologies. In heterogametic species, an engineered male-determining chromosome can serve as a method for providing robust and localized population suppression without the need for a gene drive. In mice, X-chromosome inactivation is mediated by X-inactive specific transcript (Xist) long non-coding RNA. I propose to encode a system on the Y chromosome to knock out a necessary region for proper X-inactivation in females. Loss of Xist gene function has no known effects in males or females with a dysfunctional maternal copy, however, females who inherit a dysfunctional paternal copy die at embryonic day 8.5. Thus, this results in a male sex-biased mouse. To create a daughterless mouse, my proof-of-principle design will include a constitutively expressed Cas protein with at minimum a two-guide array. Additionally, I will draw on the ecological species concept found in some cultures, like the M¯aori of New Zealand, to create an alternate eco-cisgenic version using cisgenic murine elements and a CRISPR system found in a commensal species of bacteria. Creating a cisgenic non-driving mammalian model of a genetic population suppression system would be a first-of-its-kind example to show how biological engineering design decisions can be congruent with culturally specific notions of ecology.
Bednets or Biotechnology: To Rescue Current Persons or Research for the Future?
14236D. E. Callies, Fudan Journal of the Humanities and Social Sciences, 14. 2020-08-13 13:44:08.
After an exploration of the duty to rescue and cost-effectiveness analysis, I suggest we look towards the literature on intergenerational justice for a justifiable answer to the question of how we ought to allocate our malaria resources.
Atypical meiosis can be adaptive in outcrossed Schizosaccharomyces pombe due to wtf meiotic drivers
13899M. A. Bravo Núñez, I. M. Sabbarini, L. E. Eide, R. L. Unckless and S. E. Zanders, eLife, 9:e57936. 2020-08-13 13:30:44.
Here, we demonstrate that in scenarios analogous to outcrossing, wtf drivers generate a fitness landscape in which atypical spores, such as aneuploids and diploids, are advantageous. In this context, wtf drivers can decrease the fitness costs of mutations that disrupt meiotic fidelity and, in some circumstances, can even make such mutations beneficial. This work empirically demonstrates the potential for meiotic drivers to shape the evolution of gametogenesis.
Modelling the suppression of a malaria vector using a CRISPR-Cas9 gene drive to reduce female fertility
13724A. R. North, A. Burt and H. C. J. Godfray, BMC Biology, 18:98. 2020-08-11 12:23:41.
Gene drives based on CRISPR-Cas9 technology are increasingly being considered as tools for reducing the capacity of mosquito populations to transmit malaria, and one of the most promising options is driving endonuclease genes that reduce the fertility of female mosquitoes. Here, we use simulation modelling to understand the factors affecting the spread of this type of gene drive over a one million-square kilometre area of West Africa containing substantial environmental and social heterogeneity.
Incorporating Characteristics of Gene Drive Engineered Ae. aegypti as Methods to Reduce Dengue and Zika Virus into the Bayesian Network – Relative Risk Model, Using Ponce, Puerto Rico as a Case Study
16097S. R. Eikenbary, WWU Graduate School Collection, 2020-08-10 19:24:02.
The Bayesian network relative risk model can perform the risk assessment of gene drive engineered Ae. aegypti for vector control and as part of an adaptive management strategy to reduce dengue and Zika transmission. This study illustrates how the BN-RRM can integrate gene drive related information within a risk assessment framework suitable for adaptive management of these novel stressors.
Engineered Reproductively Isolated Species Drive Reversible Population Replacement
13837A. Buchman, I. Shriner, T. Yang, J. Liu, I. Antoshechkin, J. M. Marshall, M. W. Perry and O. S. Akbari, bioRxiv, 2020.08.09.242982. 2020-08-10 15:42:26.
Engineered reproductive species barriers are useful for impeding gene flow and driving desirable genes into wild populations in a reversible threshold-dependent manner. We engineer multiple reproductively isolated SPECIES and demonstrate their threshold-dependent gene drive capabilities in D. melanogaster.
Ubiquitous selfish toxin-antidote elements in Caenorhabditis species
13751E. Ben-David, P. Pliota, S. A. Widen, A. Koreshova, T. Lemus-Vergara, P. Verpukhovskiy, S. Mandali, C. Braendle, A. Burga and L. Kruglyak, bioRxiv, 2020.08.06.240564. 2020-08-07 17:38:23.
We discovered five maternal-effect Toxin/Antidotes (TAs) in the nematode Caenorhabditis tropicalis and one in C. briggsae. Unlike previously reported TAs, five of these novel toxins do not kill embryos but instead cause larval arrest or developmental delay. Our results show that TAs are common in Caenorhabditis species, target a wide range of developmental processes, and may act as barriers preventing gene flow.
Selfing is the safest sex for Caenorhabditis tropicalis
13747L. M. Noble, J. Yuen, L. Stevens, N. Moya, R. Persaud, M. Moscatelli, J. Jackson, C. Braendle, E. C. Andersen, H. S. Seidel and M. V. Rockman, bioRxiv, 2020.08.07.242032. 2020-08-07 13:24:52.
Frequent selfing in Caenorhabditis. tropicalis may be a strategy to avoid gene drive-mediated outbreeding depression. Mating systems have profound effects on genetic diversity and compatibility. Caenorhabditis tropicalis is the least genetically diverse among 3 species of Caenorhabditis that have evolved a mating system dependent on self-fertilization and is the most afflicted by outbreeding depression.
Maintenance management and eradication of established aquatic invaders
13936D. Simberloff, Hydrobiologia, 22. 2020-08-06 13:34:15.
The rapid development of technologies based on genetics has engendered excitement about possibly eradicating or controlling terrestrial invaders, and such technologies may also prove useful for certain aquatic invaders. Methods of particular interest, alone or in various combinations, are gene-silencing, RNA-guided gene drives, and the use of transgenes.
Global Governing Bodies: A Pathway for Gene Drive Governance for Vector Mosquito Control
13605A. Kelsey, D. Stillinger, T. B. Pham, J. Murphy, S. Firth and R. Carballar-Lejarazú, American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, 2020-08-05 12:34:11.
We examined the current institutions and governing bodies among various continents that could have an impact on gene drive governance or the potential to adapt to its future use. Possible governance strategies also are proposed that seek to bridge gaps and promote an ethically sound policy framework. Ideally, governance strategies should be developed before or at the same pace as gene drive research to anticipate field releases and maximize their impact as a public health tool.
Modeling the suppression dynamics of Aedes mosquitoes with mating inhomogeneity
13847M. Huang and L. Hu, Journal of Biological Dynamics, 14:656-678. 2020-08-04 13:51:41.
In this work, we introduce a delay differential equation model with mating inhomogeneity to discuss mosquito population suppression based on Wolbachia. Our analyses show that the wild mosquitoes could be eliminated if either the adult mortality rate exceeds the threshold δ∗A or the release amount exceeds the threshold r∗ uniformly. Our simulations suggest that the releasing should be started at least 5 weeks before the peak dengue season, taking into account both the release amount and the suppression speed.
Genomic analyses of a livestock pest, the New World screwworm, find potential targets for genetic control programs
13618M. J. Scott, J. B. Benoit, R. J. Davis, S. T. Bailey, V. Varga, E. O. Martinson, P. V. Hickner, Z. Syed, G. A. Cardoso, T. T. Torres, M. T. Weirauch, E. H. Scholl, A. M. Phillippy, A. Sagel, M. Vasquez, G. Quintero and S. R. Skoda, Nature Communications, 3:424. 2020-08-04 12:56:38.
We identify and analyze the expression of genes that are likely important for host-seeking behavior (chemosensory), development of larvae in open wounds in warm-blooded animals (heat shock protein, immune response) and for building transgenic strains for genetic control programs including gene drive (sex determination, germline). This study will underpin future experiments aimed at understanding the parasitic lifestyle of the screwworm fly and greatly facilitate future development of strains for efficient systems for genetic control of screwworm.
