Related Experiment Videos
Genetic engineering of livestock
V G Pursel1, C A Pinkert, K F Miller
1U.S. Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, MD 20705.
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|June 16, 1989
Summary
Genetic engineering in pigs improved growth and feed efficiency but caused significant health issues. Further research is needed for safe, beneficial transgenic livestock applications.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Genetics
- Animal Science
Background:
- Genetic engineering of livestock offers potential agricultural benefits.
- Multigenerational studies are crucial for assessing the long-term impacts of transgene expression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically evaluate the beneficial and adverse consequences of long-term bovine growth hormone (bGH) expression in transgenic pigs across generations.
Main Methods:
- Two lines of transgenic pigs were created to express the bGH gene.
- Two successive generations were studied to assess multigenerational effects.
Main Results:
- Transgenic pigs showed improved daily weight gain and feed efficiency.
- Carcass composition changed, with reduced subcutaneous fat.
- Long-term bGH elevation led to detrimental health effects, including gastric ulcers, arthritis, cardiomegaly, dermatitis, and renal disease.
Conclusions:
- While bGH gene expression enhances growth and feed efficiency, it poses significant health risks.
- Achieving beneficial effects without adverse health outcomes may require enhanced control of transgene expression, genetic modifications, or altered husbandry practices.