On December 9, 2024, ISAAA Inc. and the Philippine Agriculture and Fisheries Biotechnology Program hosted a pivotal webinar titled “Leading Breakthroughs: Gene Drives for a Sustainable Agriculture and Biodiversity Conservation.” The event attracted over 180 participants eager to explore the potential of gene drive technology in addressing pressing agricultural and environmental challenges.
Dr. Maria Genaleen Q. Diaz, a prominent figure in the field and Director of the Institute of Biological Sciences at the University of the Philippines Los Baños, provided a comprehensive overview of gene drive, defining it as a process that enhances the inheritance of specific genes across generations. This technology, which leverages recombinant DNA techniques, is seen as a transformative tool capable of altering populations by introducing beneficial traits or disrupting undesirable genes. Dr. Diaz highlighted the necessity for organisms to reproduce sexually and possess short generation times for effective implementation of gene drives.
The webinar emphasized the diverse applications of gene drives, particularly in pest control. With advancements in CRISPR gene editing, the development of gene drives has become more efficient, allowing for targeted interventions against invasive species. Notably, research led by Professor Paul Q. Thomas from the University of Adelaide has demonstrated the feasibility of applying gene drives to vertebrates, such as cats and foxes, although the timeline for eradication is significantly longer than for smaller rodents.
While gene drives represent a promising avenue for reducing reliance on chemical pesticides and managing invasive species, they also encounter regulatory and ethical challenges. Dr. Diaz pointed out the importance of developing methods to control the spread of gene drives, ensuring that if necessary, their propagation can be reversed. Professor Thomas stressed the critical need for stakeholder engagement to foster public understanding and support for this emerging technology.
The implications of gene drive technology are profound, as it not only offers solutions for pest management but also holds potential for enhancing food security and promoting biodiversity conservation. As the agricultural sector grapples with the dual pressures of increasing food production and environmental sustainability, gene drives could play a crucial role in shaping the future of sustainable agriculture.
For those interested in delving deeper into this topic, the recorded webinar is available on the ISAAA Webinars page and YouTube, and the series will continue with a focus on novel foods later this year.
