Publications

Gene drives, mosquitoes, and ecosystems: an interdisciplinary approach to emerging ethical concerns

January 12, 2024

Gene drives are genetic elements that in sexually reproducing organisms spread faster than those transmitted through a Mendelian fashion. Since gene drives can be engineered to modify different aspects of physiology and reproduction, they have been proposed as a new and revolutionary tool to control vector-borne diseases, particularly those transmitted by the genera Anopheles and Aedes (Culicidae), such as […]

mRNA vaccines expressing malaria transmission-blocking antigens Pfs25 and Pfs230D1 induce a functional immune response

January 11, 2024

Malaria transmission-blocking vaccines (TBV) are designed to inhibit the sexual stage development of the parasite in the mosquito host and can play a significant role in achieving the goal of malaria elimination. Preclinical and clinical studies using protein–protein conjugates of leading TBV antigens Pfs25 and Pfs230 domain 1 (Pfs230D1) have demonstrated the feasibility of TBV. […]

Public Perception of Genetically Modified Organisms and the Implementation of Biosafety Measures in Kenya

January 9, 2024

Background: Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are an important nexus of biotechnology, agriculture, and research. GMOs have gained popularity because of their potential to address global food insecurity. However, the widespread adoption of GMOs has sparked debates and controversies. This study collected data on the threats and effects of the GMO ban and the status of […]

Mitochondrial DNA variation in Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) mosquitoes from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

September 29, 2023

Background Wolbachia (Hertig 1936) (Rickettsiales: Ehrlichiaceae) has emerged as a valuable biocontrol tool in the fight against dengue by suppressing the transmission of the virus through mosquitoes. Monitoring the dynamics of Wolbachia is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of release programs. Mitochondrial (mtDNA) markers serve as important tools for molecular tracking of infected mitochondrial backgrounds over time but […]

Engineered and natural gene drives: mechanistically the same, yet not same in kind

September 29, 2023

Background Thanks to CRISPR-Cas-based gene editing, engineered gene drive has suddenly become feasible as a potential cost-effective pest control tool that could help us resolve wicked challenges. In nature, several organisms harbor genes that “selfishly” drive themselves into populations. This natural gene drive uses similar mechanisms to the ones use today to drive engineered genes […]