Computer simulation on disease vector population replacement driven by the maternal effect dominant embryonic arrest.

In this chapter, we present a series of computer simulations on the genetic modification of disease vectors. We compared the effectiveness of two techniques of genetic modification, transposable elements and maternal effect dominant embryonic arrest (MEDEA). A gene drive mechanism based on MEDEA is introduced in the population to confer immunity to individuals. Experimental results suggested that the genetic maternal effects could be necessary for the effectiveness of a disease control strategy based on the genetic modification of vectors.