Applying the Protective Precautionary Principle to the Ethical Use of Gene Drive Technology for Anopheles gambiae Suppression in Malaria Control

Abstract Malaria contributes to poverty and illness, which further hinder productivity and income generation. Therefore, combating malaria is crucial for breaking the vicious cycle of poverty. Genome editing technologies, such as gene drives designed to suppress Anopheles gambiae mosquito populations, the vector for malaria, have emerged as potential tools in this fight. However, a significant ethical question arises: under what conditions is the use of gene drive technology to suppress Anopheles gambiae mosquito populations justified? This article argues that the Protective Precautionary Principle can serve as a suitable framework for morally assessing such cases. Within this framework, the use of gene drive technology for Anopheles gambiae population suppression would be permissible for laboratory research only. This limited scope minimizes the risk of unforeseen negative consequences, particularly for disadvantaged populations who may have fewer resources to protect themselves from such effects.