Episode #10: Gene Drives

Mr. Saurabh Todi, Research Analyst, High-Tech Geopolitics Programme, The Takshashila Institution, India Dr. Shambhavi Naik, Head of Research, The Takshashila Institution, India

September 28, 2023

In this episode, we discuss advancements in gene drive capabilities and their potential as a tool to control vectors of zoonotic diseases. Gene drives are a natural process that preferentially propagates specific genetic traits through a population via sexual reproduction, and advances in genomic engineering have enabled scientists to harness this capability to target specific traits for spread in specific populations. They are best suited for use in animals that have short reproductive cycles and produce a large number of offspring, making them impractical for humans but immensely powerful for insects. Gene drives are being investigated as a tool to control mosquitoes' ability to procreate or their susceptibility to infections that could then spread to animals and humans, as a way to control diseases like malaria. Mr. Todi and Dr. Naik discuss the potential benefits of these capabilities, as well as barriers, costs, risks, and other considerations that factor into decisions regarding their future use.