Genetic biocontrols like gene drive hold immense potential for managing some of the harmful invasive mammals impacting Australia’s economy, health, and unique biodiversity.
The Problem: Invasive Mammalian Pests
Introduced mammalian pests pose severe threats to biodiversity, economic enterprise, and both livestock and human health. Conventional management methods such as toxic baiting, shooting, and trapping are often costly, ineffective or impractical, have unacceptable impacts on off-target species, and can raise ethical concerns due to mechanisms of lethality.
A New Approach
Genetic biocontrol, wherein the genomes of pest species are manipulated to interfere with reproduction, is a promising technology that addresses many of the challenges associated with conventional management practices. In particular, self-propagating gene drives that rely on normal mating to spread genes that cause infertility or skewed sex ratios have garnered interest due to the high degree of species-specificity, efficiency of application, and humane mode of control.
Our Research
Capitalising on recent advancements in precision genome engineering technologies, and in coordination with partners in Australian universities, we are undertaking research to develop new genetic biocontrols, evaluate and validate their efficacy, and ultimately advance the translation of these technologies from lab studies toward practical tools for managers.
