GeneDrive

Gene drives are genetic tools that can spread specific traits through a population more rapidly than normal inheritance allows. Using specialized enzymes, they can ensure that a targeted gene is passed on to nearly all offspring, rather than just half. This method can be used to control or modify populations of organisms, such as reducing disease-carrying mosquitoes or invasive species. While powerful, gene drives raise ethical and ecological considerations because their effects can be long-lasting and unpredictable in the wild. They represent a significant advance in genetic engineering with potential benefits and risks.