Next Generation Gene Drive for Population Modification of Mosquitoes

Dear Colleagues,

More than 80% of the global population lives in areas at risk of major vector-borne diseases that account for about 17% of all infectious diseases. Mosquitos are among the most important vectors as they transmit most of the emerging and re-emerging viral infections in addition to other diseases, such as malaria. Currently, the most efficient measure to fight arboviral diseases is to limit pathogen transmission. Failure of traditional vector control methods such as insecticides due to the emergence and spread of resistance has triggered the development of alternative entomological interventions such as genetic-based strategies to alter mosquito vector competence, thus making mosquitoes incapable of carrying pathogens. This Special Issue aims to focus on the advances achieved in gene drive-based strategies to control mosquito populations. Gene-drive-based technologies can spread, modify, or suppress genetic traits to control mosquito populations or limit the transmission of mosquito-borne diseases without eradicating natural populations, which can result in a more ecosystem-friendly control. Research papers that describe gene-drive-related aspects in mosquitoes such as specific gene modulation and effect of gene drive techniques on mosquito–pathogen interactions will be considered; in addition, original reviews that review the state of the art in this field are welcome.

Dr. Barry W. Alto
Dr. Laila Gasmi
Guest Editors

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