Question 1

Will gene drive-modified mosquitoes result in a big increase in mosquito numbers and nuisance?

Stephanie James · Accepted Answer

No. Unlike Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) that depends on overflooding the local target mosquito population to be effective, gene drive-modified mosquitoes are expected to be capable of establishing and achieving their stated objective when released in lower numbers. While the size and frequency of releases may be greater for self-limiting gene drive approaches than for self-sustaining approaches, in either case the numbers will not be as large as those used in SIT.

Conventional and genetically modified mosquito biocontrol measures have generally aimed for male only releases to minimize biting nuisance and potential to transmit disease. It is anticipated that gene drive-modified mosquito releases will operate under similar conditions. Any potential harms that might be associated with release of male mosquitoes should be considered in risk assessment.

Question 2

Will gene drive-modified mosquitoes result in a big increase in mosquito numbers and nuisance?

Stephanie James · Accepted Answer

No. Unlike Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) that depends on overflooding the local target mosquito population to be effective, gene drive-modified mosquitoes are expected to be capable of establishing and achieving their stated objective when released in lower numbers. While the size and frequency of releases may be greater for self-limiting gene drive approaches than for self-sustaining approaches, in either case the numbers will not be as large as those used in SIT.

Conventional and genetically modified mosquito biocontrol measures have generally aimed for male only releases to minimize biting nuisance and potential to transmit disease. It is anticipated that gene drive-modified mosquito releases will operate under similar conditions. Any potential harms that might be associated with release of male mosquitoes should be considered in risk assessment.

Question 3

Will gene drive-modified mosquitoes result in a big increase in mosquito numbers and nuisance?

Stephanie James · Accepted Answer

No. Unlike Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) that depends on overflooding the local target mosquito population to be effective, gene drive-modified mosquitoes are expected to be capable of establishing and achieving their stated objective when released in lower numbers. While the size and frequency of releases may be greater for self-limiting gene drive approaches than for self-sustaining approaches, in either case the numbers will not be as large as those used in SIT.

Conventional and genetically modified mosquito biocontrol measures have generally aimed for male only releases to minimize biting nuisance and potential to transmit disease. It is anticipated that gene drive-modified mosquito releases will operate under similar conditions. Any potential harms that might be associated with release of male mosquitoes should be considered in risk assessment.