Gene Drives: Should We Eradicate Mosquitoes?

Scientists have developed powerful gene drive technology with the potential to eradicate mosquitoes and other pests, preventing immense suffering from diseases like malaria. Target Malaria aims to use gene editing to render Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes infertile, controlling malaria transmission. However, this raises profound ethical questions: Do we have the right to intentionally drive a species to extinction? Experts warn that while mosquitoes are annoying, their role in ecosystems is unclear, and eradication could have unpredictable consequences. The article explores the potential and risks of gene drive technology, balancing human welfare with species conservation, particularly in malaria-ravaged Africa. Ultimately, it suggests prioritizing targeting the malaria parasite itself, rather than the mosquito, to minimize risks and achieve more effective results.