In a groundbreaking development, pork lovers in the United States will soon have access to a new generation of meat thanks to a significant breakthrough in biotechnology. British company Genus, specialized in animal genetics, has introduced pigs that are resistant to the reproductive and respiratory syndrome of pigs (PRRS), commonly known as the “blue ear” virus.
For years, this virus has been a major issue for farmers, causing high temperatures, constant coughing, weight gain problems, and issues with reproduction in pigs. The virus has led to significant losses for pork producers in North America, totaling more than $600 million annually. Despite existing vaccines, the spread of the virus has remained a challenge.
However, Genus has proposed a solution utilizing cutting-edge technology. They have harnessed the power of CRISPR, a revolutionary tool in genetic engineering, to edit the genes of pigs and create a resistance to the PRRS virus. CRISPR technology has opened up new possibilities in various fields, including medicine, agriculture, and biology. Its precision, effectiveness, and accessibility make it a game-changer in genetic research and biotechnology.