Gene Editing Could Protect Pigs From Diseases

By Innovature Staff

In the nine months between August 2018 and May 2019, 150-200 million pigs in China have become infected with African swine fever (ASF), a deadly disease that can cause pigs to die in just a few short days. Pork production is expected to fall by 25% to 35% in the country because of the virus.

The virus—which is not communicable to humans—has led to higher prices, and, in some cases, no pork available in grocery stores, and it has caused ripple effects throughout the global economy. It is also a major animal welfare concern, with infected pigs suffering from high fever, respiratory distress and weakness.

Looking beyond pigs, gene editing could eliminate many livestock viruses. It’s a huge advancement to have new tools to enhance animal welfare.

DAN KOVICH,
VETERINARIAN, DIRECTOR OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, NATIONAL PORK PRODUCERS COUNCIL

Today, there is no treatment for African swine fever. But researchers are exploring the possibility of using gene editing to breed pigs resistant to the virus….at link