UC San Diego researchers have developed a new CRISPR system called pPro-MobV that actively removes antibiotic resistance genes from bacterial populations, rather than simply suppressing them.[1] The technology works similar to the gene drives used in insects—it spreads the genetic "fix" between bacteria through natural communication channels between cells.[1] The system is also able to function in bacterial biofilms, which are communities of microorganisms difficult to remove with conventional cleaning methods.[1] Scientists have also discovered that elements of this genetic system can be delivered using bacteriophages—viruses that are natural competitors of bacteria.[1] The technology includes a safety mechanism based on homologous deletion, which allows the removal of the genetic cassette if necessary.[1] Antibiotic resistance is a global threat – predicted to cause more than 10 million deaths per year by 2050.[3] This breakthrough tool represents one of the few ways to actively reverse the spread of antibiotic resistance genes.[1]