Gene drives in the wild: using population genetics to inform development and evaluation of genetic biocontrols

Genetic biocontrols such as synthetic gene drive offer potential solutions to invasive pest control that are more efficient, species-specific, and in many cases, humane compared to conventional management practices. Catalysed by advancements in precision genome engineering, there is growing interest in developing such technologies for managing vertebrate pests in Australia. While there has been recent success in laboratory proof-of-concepts, successful translation to field deployment will depend critically on thorough population genetic analyses of wild populations to accurately predict gene drive performance, evaluate risks, and inform refinement of the biocontrol strategy. Here we present the results of population genetic analyses that evaluate the feasibility of genetic biocontrol for two species of management concern in Australia – house mice on oceanic islands and European rabbits. Using whole-genome sequencing, we report on patterns of gene flow and population structure, genetic admixture, and candidate genomic targets for localised CRISPR-mediated homing gene drives. In addition to informing development of potential genetic biocontrols, the results provide insights into the eco-evolutionary histories of these populations as well as the suitability for conventional control approaches.