New research is shining a light on one of genetics’ enduring puzzles—how the workings of the so-called “selfish gene” could be harnessed to control harmful insect populations. By understanding the molecular basis of a selfish gene and the way it operates, scientists believe they could identify novel methods to control certain insects that are globally significant pests and disease carriers.
How harnessing the ‘selfish gene’ could control harmful insect populations
