RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Dynamics of a combined medea-underdominant population transformation system
JF bioRxiv
FD Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
SP 005512
DO 10.1101/005512
A1 Chaitanya S. Gokhale
A1 Richard Guy Reeves
A1 Floyd A Reed
YR 2014
UL http://biorxiv.org/content/early/2014/05/27/005512.abstract
AB Background Transgenic constructs intended to be stably established at high frequencies in wild populations have been demonstrated to “drive” from low frequencies in experimental insect populations. Linking such population transformation constructs to genes which render them unable to transmit pathogens could eventually be used to stop the spread of vector-borne diseases like malaria and dengue.Results Generally, population transformation constructs with only a single transgenic drive mechanism have been envisioned. Using a theoretical modelling approach we describe the predicted properties of a construct combining autosomal Medea and underdominant population transformation systems. We show that when combined they can exhibit synergistic properties which in broad circumstances surpass those of the single systems.Conclusion With combined systems, intentional population transformation and its reversal can be achieved readily. Combined constructs also enhance the capacity to geographically restrict transgenic constructs to targeted populations. It is anticipated that these properties are likely to be of particular value in attracting regulatory approval and public acceptance of this novel technology.