Jue Huang

Hangzhou Luohuashi Biotechnology Co., Ltd., Hangzhou, 310000, Zhejiang, China
Author    Correspondence author
International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 2024, Vol. 14, No. 2   doi: 10.5376/ijmz.2024.14.0008
Received: 14 Jan., 2024    Accepted: 18 Feb., 2024    Published: 01 Mar., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Huang J., 2024, Application of CRISPR technology in endangered species conservation, International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 14(2): 62-71 (doi: 10.5376/ijmz.2024.14.0008)

As an advanced gene-editing tool, CRISPR technology has shown tremendous potential in the field of endangered species conservation in recent years. This study introduces the primary applications and challenges of CRISPR technology in endangered species conservation. First, CRISPR technology improves genetic diversity, health level, and disease resistance of endangered species through gene repair, the introduction of new genes and controlling the spread of harmful mutations. In addition, CRISPR gene drive technology effectively controls invasive alien species and reduces competitive pressure on native endangered species. CRISPR technology can also enhance the adaptability of endangered species to environmental pollution and climate change, such as by introducing anti-pollution genes and regulating heat tolerance genes to improve adaptability. However CRISPR technology faces technical and ethical challenges in endangered species conservation. On the technical level, the lack of genomic data for non-model organisms and off-target effects of gene editing are the main issues. On the ethical level, gene editing may alter the natural evolutionary process of species and bring ecological risks. Therefore, interdisciplinary collaboration needs to be strengthened to ensure that scientists, policymakers, and the public jointly explore solutions. Looking ahead, improved gene-editing tools and advances in bioinformatics will enhance the accuracy and efficiency of gene editing, promote data sharing and interdisciplinary cooperation to advance CRISPR technology in endangered species conservation. Through technological improvements and multi-stakeholder collaboration, CRISPR technology will play a significant role in global biodiversity conservation.

CRISPR technology; Endangered species; Gene editing; Gene drive; Biodiversity conservation