Xuelian Jiang , Wenfang Wang

Institute of Life Sciences, Jiyang Colloge of Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China
Author    Correspondence author
GMO Biosafety Research, 2024, Vol. 15, No. 3   
Received: 24 Apr., 2024    Accepted: 07 Jun., 2024    Published: 16 Jun., 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 systems, which promote the biased inheritance of specific genes, are emerging as powerful tools in environmental management, including controlling invasive species and vector-borne diseases. However, the release of gene drive organisms into the environment raises significant ecological concerns that require thorough risk assessment to understand potential impacts on ecosystems and biodiversity. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms and types of gene drive systems, including CRISPR-based, homing endonuclease, and transposable elements, and their applications in population suppression and modification. It further examines the ecological risks associated with gene drive releases, such as unintended effects on non-target species, biodiversity loss, and gene flow. The review explores current frameworks for ecological risk assessment and presents case studies, including a detailed analysis of a gene drive designed for malaria control, outlining specific ecological risks and mitigation strategies. Furthermore, the importance of monitoring and surveillance strategies post-release is discussed, highlighting technical and logistical challenges. Ethical, social, and regulatory considerations are also addressed, emphasizing the need for robust policy and regulatory frameworks. This review concludes with key findings and future research needs in ecological risk assessment, monitoring, and policy development to guide the responsible use of gene drive technologies.

Gene drive systems; Ecological risk assessment; CRISPR-based gene drive; Biodiversity; Policy and regulation