Towards novel genetic biocontrol for managing invasive rabbits in Australia

The European rabbit is an invasive pest in Australia, with damage to agriculture exceeding AU$200M annually, and negative impacts on at least 300 threatened native species. Whilst managers have achieved some notable success using viral biological controls, emerging resistance within rabbit populations has motivated a need for new technologies that are more efficient and humane. Leveraging recent advances in genome engineering and mammalian gene drives, we are developing the essential capabilities to develop and evaluate a safe, targeted, and efficient novel genetic biocontrol. Here we discuss our team’s recent progress in genome editing, assisted reproductive technologies, and population genetics to support gene drive research in rabbits.