Genetically Engineered Mice and Lyme Disease

The video discusses the rise of Lyme disease on Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard due to tick populations. An MIT scientist proposes a solution involving genetically engineered mice to reduce Lyme disease prevalence. The community's initial skepticism is turning into cautious optimism as they consider the ecological and societal implications of releasing engineered mice. The plan involves a seven-year timeline with community votes and regulatory approvals.

What is the primary vector for Lyme disease on Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard?

• Mosquitoes

• Flies

• Ticks

• Fleas

What animal is primarily responsible for infecting ticks with Lyme disease?

• Birds

• Mice

• Rabbits

• Deer

What is the proposed solution to reduce Lyme disease cases on the islands?

• Spraying pesticides

• Introducing more deer

• Genetically engineering mice

• Building more trails

How many genetically engineered mice are proposed to be released on each island?

• 50,000

• 10,000

• 200,000

• 100,000

What is the role of gene editing technology in this project?

• To reduce the number of mice

• To make mice immune to Lyme disease

• To make mice larger

• To create new species of mice

What was the initial reaction of the community to the proposal of releasing genetically engineered mice?

• Immediate acceptance

• Skepticism and disbelief

• Strong opposition

• Indifference

What is the purpose of forming a steering committee in the context of this project?

• To advertise the project

• To fund the project

• To oversee and guide the project

• To oppose the project

What is the expected timeline for the release of genetically engineered mice?

• 2 years

• 7 years

• 10 years

• 5 years

What is one of the main concerns of skeptics regarding the release of genetically engineered mice?

• Long-term ecological effects

• Impact on tourism

• Increase in mouse population

• Cost of the project

What factor contributes to the high population of white-footed mice in New England?

• Lack of predators

• Urban development

• Abundance of acorns

• Climate change