Next-generation gene drive for population modification of the malaria vector mosquito, Anopheles gambiae

Significance Genetic systems for controlling transmission of vector-borne diseases are moving from discovery-stage demonstrations of proofs-of-principle to the next phases of development. A successful transition requires meeting safety and efficacy criteria defined in target product profiles. We show here that the Cas9/guide RNA-based gene-drive components of a genetically-engineered malaria mosquito vector, Anopheles gambiae , achieve key target product profile requirements for efficacy and performance. This system is designed to achieve mosquito population modification when coupled with genes encoding antiparasite effector molecules and result in stable and sustainable blocking of malaria parasite transmission.