Progress and prospects for the use of genetically modified mosquitoes to inhibit disease transmission

Overview

The use of genetically modified mosquitoes (GMMs) for disease control has social, economic and ethical implications, so it is important that the World Health Organization (WHO) and its partners provide guidance to countries on these issues. In collaboration with the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health (FNIH), TDR has developed a series of planning meetings on Progress and prospects for the use of genetically modified mosquitoes to inhibit disease transmission. These technical and public consultations will focus on current status and planning for future development.

The first technical consultation on genetically modified mosquitoes for malaria and dengue control was held at WHO headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland in May 2009. The meeting was attended by 38 scientists and specialists from 13 countries.

Its main objectives were to update participants about progress made; to identify issues, challenges and needs ; and to make recommendations on how to develop internationally acceptable guidance principles for GMM testing. Discussions focused on the requirements for safety and efficacy testing for human health and the environment, on selection of locations and conditions appropriate for field testing (including regulatory requirements and community engagement) and on needs for communication with end-users and stakeholders. This report summarizes the issues covered and outlines the meeting outcomes. It highlights progress made and recommends how to address the issues, challenges and needs identified during the meeting