Abstract:
Vector-borne diseases (VBDs) continue to pose significant threats to global public health. In recent years, the genetic manipulation of vectors has emerged as a promising approach for combating these diseases. The opportunities and challenges associated with genetic manipulation of vectors as a strategy for controlling VBDs. Genetic modification techniques, such as gene editing and gene drive technologies, offer the potential to reduce vector competence, disrupt vector populations, and suppress disease transmission. Genetic manipulation techniques, such as CRISPR-Cas9, have revolutionized the field of vector biology. These tools enable researchers to precisely edit the genomes of vectors, facilitating the identification and functional characterization of genes involved in vector competence, host interaction, and pathogen transmission. Gene drive technologies have garnered significant attention due to their potential for altering vector populations. Gene drives are genetic elements that can bias inheritance, increasing the transmission of desired genetic traits through a population. In the context of VBDs, gene drives can be used to spread traits that reduce vector populations or make them less competent in transmitting pathogens. However, the use of gene drives raises ethical and ecological concerns, necessitating careful risk assessment, regulatory frameworks, and community engagement. Despite the promise of genetic manipulation, several challenges must be addressed. Ensuring the safety and efficacy of genetic modification techniques is paramount. Offtarget effects, unintended consequences, and the potential for the development of resistance mechanisms need to be thoroughly investigated. Additionally, the long-term ecological and evolutionary impacts of manipulating vector populations require careful consideration. The successful deployment of genetic manipulation strategies depends on technical and logistical factors. Developing efficient delivery systems for introducing genetic modifications into vector populations, ensuring stable inheritance of modified genes, and scaling up interventions in the field pose practical challenges. Collaborative efforts between researchers, policymakers, and communities are necessary to address these challenges and foster responsible and effective application of genetic manipulation techniques.
Page(s):
402-402
DOI:
DOI not available
Published:
Journal: Abstract Book on International Conference on Food and Applied Sciences (ICFAS-23) 3-5 August 23, Volume: 0, Issue: 0, Year: 2023