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The Promise of Gene-Drives and Other Active Genetic Systems
August 8 @ 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Porter Lecture
Ethan Bier, Professor of Biology, University of California San Diego
Lecture Abstract: This lecture will explore the application of CRISPR-based tools to gene drives and the development of other active genetic elements. Topics will include using CRISPR and gene drive principles in somatic cell genetics and genome engineering, as well as real-world applications of active genetics—such as combating insect-borne diseases like malaria, reversing insecticide resistance, and removing antibiotic resistance from bacteria in both environmental and clinical contexts. The lecture will also address the ethical considerations surrounding CRISPR and other transformative biological technologies.
Ethan Bier is a distinguished professor in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology at UC San Diego, using genetic strategies to study evolution and development. Most recently, his lab developed active genetic systems that bypass the standard rules of Mendelian genetics. He graduated from UCSD in 1978 with degrees in Biology and Mathematics, received his Ph.D. from Harvard Medical School (1978-1985), and did his postdoctoral studies at UCSF with Drs. Lily and Yuh Nung Jan (1985-90), and then assumed a faculty position at UCSD in 1990.
About the Porter Lecture
The annual Porter Lecture is held in honor of Dr. Keith Roberts Porter, a former Director of the MBL considered by many to be the “Father” of cell biology. It is sponsored by the Keith R. Porter Endowment, whose goal is to support communication and education in cell biology.