Conference on Genetic Manipulation of Insects, to be held in Taos, New Mexico, February 2004

Keystone Symposia On Molecular And Cellular Biology, Silverthorne CO

Investigators

Abstract

Insect molecular genetics is growing rapidly and its application will be of increasing significance to humankind. Some key developments include the completion of insect genome sequencing projects, the development of germ-line transformation technologies, and the routine production of transgenic insects. Despite progress, pivotal problems remain, such as identifying targets for genetic manipulation, developing methodologies to introduce and spread transgenes, mapping target insect population architecture, predicting the fate of transgenes, and assessing the impact of transgenic insects, including their impact on the environment. The goals of this meeting are to facilitate discussion about the genetic manipulation of insects among scientists from a variety of disciplines, to foster dialog and technology transfer between scientists, and to encourage new collaborations. Risk and safety issues raised by the genetic manipulation of insects will be discussed, and interactions between young and established scientists will be encouraged.