Gene Drives

Gene drives are genetic tools that bias inheritance so a specific gene variant spreads rapidly through a population, even if it offers no advantage or is harmful. Using technologies like CRISPR, scientists can modify a gene and ensure it’s passed on more frequently than normal inheritance (which is about 50%). This can be used to control pests, reduce disease transmission (like malaria-carrying mosquitoes), or potentially eliminate invasive species. However, gene drives also pose ecological and ethical challenges because their effects are difficult to reverse once released into the environment.