8th Dec 2015 07:20
LONDON (Alliance News) - Animal genetics company Genus PLC on Tuesday said it has developed the first pigs resistant to Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus through its collaboration with the University of Missouri in the US.
The FTSE 250-listed company said the production of these pigs marks a significant breakthrough in combating the disease, which causes animal reproductive failure, reduced growth and premature death, and is a major challenge for pig farmers.
Genus said the University of Missouri, by using precise gene editing, was able to breed pigs that do not produce a specific protein required for the virus to spread in the animals.
"The demonstration of genetic resistance to the PRRS virus by gene editing is a potential game-changer for the pork industry. There are several critical challenges ahead as we develop and commercialise this technology; however, the promise is clear, and Genus is committed to developing its potential," said Jonathan Lightner, chief scientific officer and head of research and development at Genus.
By Sam Unsted; [email protected]; @SamUAtAlliance
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