Gene Drive Mosquito Release Programs: Population Suppression Strategies for Anopheles gambiae Control

Masika Anna Mahinda

Department of Pharmacy Kampala International University Uganda

Email: mahindamasika@studwc.kiu.ac.ug

ABSTRACT

Malaria remained a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, with Anopheles gambiae serving as the primary vector in sub-Saharan Africa where 95% of malaria deaths occur. Traditional vector control methods face increasing challenges from insecticide resistance and behavioral adaptation, necessitating innovative approaches. This narrative review examined the molecular mechanisms, population dynamics, and translational potential of gene drive technologies for A. gambiae suppression. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases from 2015-2024, focusing on CRISPR-based gene drives, population modeling studies, and field trial data. Current evidence demonstrated that engineered gene drives can achieve theoretical population suppression through mechanisms including fertility reduction, sex-ratio distortion, and homing endonuclease systems, with laboratory studies showing inheritance rates exceeding 90% in some constructs. However, significant challenges persisted including resistance evolution, ecological risk assessment, and regulatory frameworks for environmental release. Mathematical models suggested that gene drive efficacy requires sustained inheritance rates above 85% and careful consideration of population structure and migration patterns. The technology represents a promising complementary tool to existing vector control strategies, though comprehensive safety assessments and community engagement remain prerequisites for field implementation.

Keywords: Gene drive technology, Anopheles gambiae, CRISPR-Cas9, Population suppression, Malaria vector control.

CITE AS: Masika Anna Mahinda (2026). Gene Drive Mosquito Release Programs: Population Suppression Strategies for Anopheles gambiae Control. IAA Journal of Biological Sciences 14(1):12-21. https://doi.org/10.59298/IAAJB/2026/1411221