A Computer Simulation Model of Gene Replacement in Vector Populations

In this paper, we conduct a series of computer simulations on the genetic modification of disease vectors. In our model, a population of mosquitoes is modeled as DNA sequences. A gene drive mechanism based on simulated transposable elements is inserted into DNA sequences to confer immunity to individuals. Different scenarios on the spread and prevalence of modified genes are simulated using the evolutionary game theory. Preliminary results suggest that the proposed model could be useful for identifying a set of population-level conditions that a disease control strategy based on genetic modification of vectors should satisfy to be effective.