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Could gene drive mosquitoes be the key to ending deadly diseases like malaria and dengue or do the risks outweigh the benefits? 

In this episode of Causes or Cures, Dr. Eeks talks with Dr. Michael Santos about the controversial yet potentially groundbreaking technology known as gene drive. Unlike traditional genetically modified organisms, gene drive mosquitoes are engineered to pass on specific traits to nearly all of their offspring, drastically altering or suppressing mosquito populations that spread disease. With real-world field trials set to begin very soon, we dive into how this technology works, how it differs from standard genetic modification, what diseases it targets, and what could go wrong. We also explore how the trials will be conducted, regulated, and monitored to ensure safety and transparency. Is this the dawn of a public health breakthrough or are we opening a Pandora’s box we can’t close? 

Dr. Michael Santos is the Senior Vice President of Science Partnerships and Chief Population Health Science Officer at the Foundation for the NIH. He leads global programs focused on biomedical innovation and health equity, and directs the GeneConvene Global Collaboration, which supports informed decision-making around genetic biocontrol technologies like gene drive. Prior to this, he held leadership roles at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and was a Principal at Boston Consulting Group, working across global health strategy. Dr. Santos began his career in astronomy and holds a Ph.D. from Caltech. 

To learn more about GeneConvene, Gene Drive Mosquitoes (and gain access to the infographic discussed in the episode) please click here. 

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