CRISPR Technology for Livestock Improvement: Advances and Future Directions

CRISPR-Cas9 technology is revolutionizing genetic engineering by enabling precise genome modifications across a wide range of organisms, particularly in livestock. This review focuses on livestock improvement and the most recent transformative developments in the application of CRISPR-based genome editing techniques. We analyzed productivity improvements achieved by editing growth factor genes, immunogenic resistance enhancement through the editing of immune loci, and ecological footprint reduction for sustainability. This review also addresses the intricate ethical and regulatory issues posed by the application of CRISPR technology in animal breeding, including concerns about animal welfare violations, unintended off-target effects, and impacts on public perception. Furthermore, we discuss key untapped CRISPR targets in livestock genetics enabled by precision gene editing, the emerging integration of CRISPR with artificial intelligence, and the need for collaboration to address complex ethical and regulatory challenges related to applying CRISPR in animal breeding.