Context: A university in Kashmir (SKUAST-Kashmir) has created India’s first gene-edited sheep. It is the nation’s first success in editing the genes of livestock and a major milestone in India’s push for innovation in animal biotechnology.
Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key concepts- gene editing, gene modification & their applications.
Gene-edited Sheep:
- The lamb’s DNA was carefully altered using CRISPR-Cas9 technology. A particular gene- myostatin gene (natural brake on muscle growth) in Indian sheep was edited.
- By altering this gene, researchers were able to increase muscle mass by 30%. Such a feature exists naturally only in some European breeds like the Texel, not in Indian sheep.
How is Gene Editing different?
Gene editing is distinct from crossbreeding and gene modification.
- Gene editing involves using technologies like CRISPR-Cas9 which enable the addition, removal, or alteration of genetic material at specific locations within an organism’s genome. Unlike genetic modification no foreign DNA is introduced. It offers faster and safer results and aligns with India's current biotech regulations.
- Crossbreeding is the traditional breeding of two different breeds from the same species to create a new breed. Generally, breeds chosen have complementary traits that will enhance the offsprings’ economic value. However crossbreeding is a slow process, with viable traits visible after a few generations.
- Gene modification (transgenic animals) involves inserting news from one species into the other to create a transgenic organism.
Significance:
The progress is a turning point in livestock genetics. Gene editing allows precise changes without foreign genes which makes it more acceptable for regulators and consumers alike. This can have applications in:
- Production of gene-edited species (increased muscle mass) for meat consumption.
- Increasing output in cattle (E.g., Milk, wool etc.)
- Elimination of disease causing genes in cattle (disease-resistant animals).