Genome editing could be a ‘key tool’ in improving the efficiency of UK pig production and could help in tackling devastating diseases such as African swine fever.
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In 2017, scientists used the method to create male pigs that could be used as surrogates capable of producing sperm that contains the genetic blueprint of sought-after pigs. In the same year, pigs were produced that were potentially resilient to Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome, an infection which costs the sector billions each year.
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The National Pig Association (NPA) …. said: “Our industry cannot be disadvantaged by a lack of access to such a tool and any future policy must be clear not to breach ethical boundaries, but to have flexibility to allow the use of the technology to be exploited to its full potential.
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“Key to the use of genome editing will be the leadership which is required to properly communicate the value of this technology through the supply chain to the consumer, and also to manage expectations.”
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