This website tracks research and development on gene drives and carries out horizon scanning to anticipate future developments.
We monitor which species are being proposed as gene drive targets and why, and examine how far development has progressed on each proposal.
We present headline findings, analysis and infographics, all supported by a database detailing the gene drive proposals and projects described in the literature to date.
Gene drive technology aims to overcome natural patterns of inheritance and ‘force’ genetic modifications into wild species. The aim would be either to reduce or eradicate wild populations or to replace wild species with engineered forms. For more on how gene drives might work see 'about gene drives', and for more on why they are being developed see 'key findings'.
Historically the intention has been to prevent genetic modifications spreading in the wild, yet gene drives aim to forcibly spread them. This new level of ambition brings the potential for consequences at a much greater scale. We provide independent information and analysis to encourage and inform debate on this technology.
Analysis of our database of gene drive research, including a summary of recent developments
Infographic showing the species in which functional, or partially functional, gene drives have been built
Analysis of the risks with discussion of related issues and uncertainties