Genus, a global pioneer in animal genetics, has announced the development of pigs that are resistant to the Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus ("PRRSv"), the first of its kind.
This milestone was achieved through a long-standing collaboration with the University of Missouri.
According to the company, the production of PRRSv-resistant pigs is a significant breakthrough in fighting the disease, and it is enthusiastic about advancing the technology under an exclusive global license from the university.
Employing precise gene editing, the University of Missouri was able to breed pigs that do not produce a specific protein necessary for the virus to spread in animals.
Early stage studies demonstrated that the PRRSv-resistant pigs - when exposed to the virus - do not fall ill and continue to gain weight normally.
Genus expects that PRRS-resistant animals will be available in five years' time. It intends to commercialise the technology through PIC, its porcine division.
"The demonstration of genetic resistance to the PRRS virus by gene editing is a potential game-changer for the pork industry," Dr. Jonathan Lightner, Genus' chief scientific officer and head of R&D, said."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. Genus is dedicated to the responsible exploration of new innovations that benefit the well-being of animals, farmers, and ultimately consumers."
The university research results had been published in the peer-reviewed scientific journal, Nature Biotechnology, on December 7.
