In a global first, gene drive technology has been successfully applied to an invasive mammal. Previous applications have targeted invertebrates, like malaria-spreading mosquitoes. In this case, the technology was used to induce female infertility in mice. Gene drive technology can be precisely targeted to individual species and offers hope as a humane, toxin-free means of […]
‘Gene drive’ technology (where genome editing increases the likelihood of certain traits being inherited) has now been applied to mammals. Previously trialled on insects, the technology was used to control the colour of mice in trials at UC San Diego, USA. Gene drive technology is being explored as a potential breakthrough in the control of […]
Gene drive technology (a way to spread a specific gene through a species) may have potential for feral animal control (especially in isolated pest populations), but non-technical questions are also being raised. For more information, see the ABC News article – ‘Feral science or feral solution‘.