Engineering Disease Resistance in a Reservoir Species for the Mice Against Ticks Project
Name
buchthal-buchthal-PHD-MAS-2024-thesis.pdf
Description
Thesis PDF
Size
48.42 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
38dfdcebb1be706557008fb9489eccf0
Author(s)
Buchthal, Joanna
Advisor(s)
Esvelt, Kevin
Date Issued
February 2025
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
This thesis explores the application of genome editing technologies to combat zoonotic infectious diseases through the development of a novel heritable immunization strategy targeting reservoir species. Focusing on Lyme disease, where white-footed mice (Peromyscus leucopus) serve as the primary reservoir, we propose embedding immunity into the germline of these animals to disrupt the disease transmission cycle and reduce the prevalence of the disease in the environment. By establishing genome engineering protocols for Peromyscus and demonstrating heritable protection against Lyme disease in genetically engineered Mus musculus, we show the feasibility of heritable immunization for long-term disease prevention. This work highlights the potential of genetic engineering for ecological interventions, offering a novel approach to public health challenges while fostering responsible community engagement in ecosystem engineering.
MIT Department
Program in Media Arts and Sciences (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
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In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted
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