Lizhi Yang

Biotechnology Research Center, Cuixi Academy of Biotechnology, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China
Author    Correspondence author
GMO Biosafety Research, 2024, Vol. 15, No. 2   
Received: 19 Jan., 2024    Accepted: 27 Feb., 2024    Published: 03 Mar., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Gene drive technology is an innovative gene-editing tool with the potential to make significant impacts in areas such as public health, agriculture, and ecological conservation. However, alongside its rapid development, concerns about biosafety and ecological risks have become increasingly prominent. This review aims to systematically explore the mechanisms of gene drive technology, its potential applications, and the safety and ethical challenges it faces. We will examine the prospects for gene drive in controlling vector-borne diseases, agricultural pest management, and ecological conservation, while analyzing the associated biosafety risks, such as unintended consequences and gene transfer. By evaluating existing regulatory frameworks, international collaborations, and relevant case studies, this paper emphasizes the need for increased public engagement and stakeholder involvement to balance technological advancement with societal values. Furthermore, future research directions are discussed, highlighting innovative reversible gene drive strategies to address global biological and ecological challenges.

Gene drive technology; Biosafety; Ecological conservation; Vector-borne disease control; Regulatory framework