Transgenic or Genetically Modified Farm Animals and their Applications: A Review

Abstract

Abstract

Transgenic are genetically modified organisms having DNA from different source introduced into their genome. Genetic alteration of livestock species is advantageous to human health as important pharmaceutical proteins can be produced in economic and efficient ways. Transgenic animals like mice, rat and hamster etc. are also used to study human diseases. Transgenic livestock species comprised of different kinds of animals are modified with the purpose of improving economically important traits such as growth rate, quality of meat, milk and its composition, disease resistance and survival of animals. In cattle, udder health and survival are the most important traits improved by transgenic technology. BSE resistant transgenic cows have been bred. Modifications have been made in sheep to improve wool production and immunity along with reducing the risk of mortality following infections by bacteria and lethal viruses. Pigs have been engineered for faster growth and more meat production with less feed consumption. There is also improvement in composition of pork for healthier human consumption. Different methods used for production of transgenic animals are DNA microinjection, retrovirus-mediated gene transfer and embryonic stem (ES) cellmediated gene transfer etc.

Keywords: Transgenic, livestock, applications, genetically modified animals

Cite this Article
Manoj Kumar, Poonam Ratwan. Transgenic or Genetically Modified farm animals and their applications: A Review. Research & Reviews: Journal of Veterinary Science and Technology. 2016; 5(3): 25–34p.