Public deliberation and the regulation of gene drive in the USA

Gene drive is a new form of biotechnology designed to bias the inheritance of selected traits in animal or plant species that reproduce sexually and have relatively short reproductive cycles. Unlike traditional breeding techniques and other forms of biotechnology, gene drive is designed to spread in wild populations. As such, the prospect of its application raises ecological and socioeconomic concerns that the current system of biotechnology regulation in the USA is ill-equipped to address. Foremost among the proposals for reform is the need for deliberative participation in decision-making by stakeholders representing a broader range of interests and analytical perspectives. As appealing as they are in the abstract, these recommendations overlook both practical and political challenges to democratic governance in administration that have received little attention.

Automated summary

Gene drive is a new biotechnology that aims to influence the inheritance of selected traits. Its application raises concerns in terms of ecology and socioeconomics. Reforms are needed in the current US biotechnology regulation system to include stakeholder participation and address challenges in democratic governance.