Transgenesis and Genome Engineering: A Historical Review

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• The development of DNA modification and introduction techniques for mammalian cells and embryos began in the 1970s.
• Early genetic engineering advanced rapidly from 1970-1980, while DNA microinjection techniques emerged later, evolving over two decades.
• Initial methods allowed adding transgenes or specific mutations, primarily in mice using embryonic stem (ES) cells.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the historical milestones in transgenesis and genome engineering from the 1970s to the present.
• To highlight the evolution of techniques for modifying and introducing DNA into organisms.
• To discuss the impact of new genome-editing tools on genetic research.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical developments in genetic engineering and transgenesis.
• Description of gene-targeting methods like homologous recombination in mouse ES cells.
• Explanation of modern genome-editing tools for precise DNA manipulation.

Main Results:

• Significant advancements in DNA modification and introduction techniques over five decades.
• The transition from adding transgenes to precise, site-specific genome editing.
• Broad applicability of new genome-editing tools across various animal species.

Conclusions:

• Transgenesis and genome engineering have undergone transformative progress since the 1970s.
• Genome editing represents a major leap, enabling targeted DNA alterations irrespective of species.
• These advancements continue to shape the future of genetic research and applications.