Development of vectors self-spreading into population by utilization of a homing endonuclease

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We attempted to develop a vector system self-expanding into insect populations that might be applicable to pest control in future. Self-expanding vectors should enable population-wide genetic manipulation by introducing a transgene into only a small fraction of population. To confer such property, we considered utilizing naturally occurring "selfish genetic elements", which gradually increase their own genetic frequency in population by generations. In this study, we designed and constructed several versions of model vectors comprising a homing endonuclease gene from yeast, which is one of the natural selfish genetic elements, introduced them into Drosophila and observed their behavior. Unfortunately, no successful self-expanding vector has been obtained so far.