May 15, 2007

Chinese scientist to develop transgenic pigs

Chinese scientists are currently developing a type of transgenic pig that would produce polyunsaturated fatty acid instead of the saturated fatty acid found in normal pigs.

Liu Zhonghua, a Professor from Northeast Agricultural University, said first stage of experiments is currently underway.

Enzymes found in a deep-water fish was transferred into pigs so they can produce the polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) similar to the oily fat of deep-water fish, the scientist said.

Diets high in saturated fats have been correlated with increased incidences of coronary heart disease and stroke.