While the BioHeritage Challenge does not invest directly in gene editing (GE) research, our investments in genetic and genomic technologies more broadly (for example eDNA and genome sequencing) aim to position New Zealand researchers for potential future involvement in synthetic biology research, including GE.

GE technologies may potentially be useful for the eradication of pests in New Zealand – pests that are devastating many of our precious native birds, bats and insects. However, a great deal of research and understanding, as well as public acceptance, is required before such technologies could be implemented.

To that end, we’ve focused primarily on exploring the social and bioethical issues surrounding GE, in order to understand concerns and the necessary safeguards/assurances should such technology ever be introduced as a tool to protect New Zealand’s environment. All of our research investments are done in partnership with Māori. We do not advocate for any particular genetic tool or technology. Our position is to investigate a range of options – including using GE in the future – in an evidence-based framework.

While BioHeritage formally includes 18 Challenge Parties, it is important to note that many of them may take different positions on research into such technologies. Our position solely reflects the BioHeritage Challenge – it is not necessarily indicative of the positions of other organisations. The scope of BioHeritage’s position is only in respect of protecting New Zealand’s environment from harmful organisms such as pests, weeds and pathogens. Genetic technologies have applications beyond this scope, and other Challenge Parties may have positions on these technologies both within and outside the scope of the BioHeritage Challenge position.

Read more about our views in Challenge Director Dr Andrea Byrom’s blog.

Via our Challenge Parties, we’ve invested in the following (non-GE) genetic and genomic research and partnerships. They will explore and inform options for controlling pests and protecting New Zealand, while keeping researchers connected to international developments in synthetic biology research:

Pest control technologies (wasps and small mammals)

• Sequencing the genomes of the common and German wasp in order to develop new genetic tools that could lead to the large-scale eradication of these pests. More info.
• Computer modelling gene drive spread and the biological efficacy of gene drive in wasps, in order to provide a balanced evaluation of the potential for a precision gene drive to eradicate wasps from New Zealand. No wasps are currently being genetically modified. Instead the team are seeking potential target genes in the native and introduced range of the wasps, and conducting computer simulations of spread using a spatial population model.
• Using genome mining (deriving information about an organism based on analysis of its genome) to identify potential target areas for alternative, non-GE pest control methods, for example, species selective toxins. More info.
• Collaborating with partners to sequence the genomes of possums, stoats and rats in order to develop new genetic tools that could lead to the large-scale eradication of these pests. More info.