Interplay of population genetics and dynamics in the genetic control of mosquitoes

Some proposed genetics-based vector control methods aim to suppress or eliminate a mosquito population in a similar manner to the sterile insect technique.  One approach under development in Anopheles mosquitoes uses homing endonuclease genes (HEGs) - selfish genetic elements that can spread rapidly through a population, even if they reduce the insect’s fitness, because they are inherited at greater than Mendelian rate.  HEGs have potential to drive introduced traits through a mosquito population without needing large-scale sustained releases.

The population genetics of HEG-based systems have been established using discrete-time mathematical models.  However, these only form part of our understanding of this approach to vector control, as several ecologically important aspects remain unexplored (overlapping generations, density-dependent non-linear larval competition, relative timing).  We formulate a new continuous-time combined population dynamic and genetic model and apply it to the case of a HEG that targets (and knocks out) a gene that is essential for survival.