Skip to main content
Entomology 2023 Main banner
Bayer
Icon Legend
This session is not in your schedule.
This session is in your schedule. Click again to remove it.
Presentation Icons
In-Person
In-Person
On-Demand
On-Demand
Student Competition
Student Competition
Poster
Poster
Ticketed Event
Ticketed Event
ViewAttendees 1

10-Minute Paper

Medical, Urban, and Veterinary Entomology

MUVE: Vector Control and Resistance Management

Biocentis: Gene drive inspired solutions for genetic pest and vector control

Wednesday, November 8, 2023
8:48 AM - 9:00 AM ET
Location: Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, National Harbor 2
In-Person
Gene drive is a novel genetic control technology with incredible potential for sustainable suppression of insect pest and vector species. First developed by the scientific founders of Biocentis, we are now extending and calibrating these technologies for precision control that can be limited in space and time, and directed to the most harmful insect populations. Our team combines new advances in machine learning, AI-technology, molecular genetics and genome engineering to develop and test insect strains modified to carry gene-drive inspired control elements. We present a first-of-its kind modelling environment that allows dynamic integration of population genetics with genetic control elements, and demonstrate a leap in efficacy afforded by our temporally-restricted solution. Our team has adapted these technologies for the mosquito vector of Dengue Fever, Aedes aegypti, enabling the dissemination into the environment of traits including flightless, non-biting females. We are now developing solutions for a range of insect pests of agricultural importance.