UK: Roslin Institute will create genetically modified pigs

Genome-edited animals must be resistant to a new disease, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), which is considered one of the most costly animal diseases worldwide. In the US and Europe alone, PRRS costs the industry £1.8bn annually.

PRRS causes respiratory problems and death in young animals, and can also lead to litter loss in pregnant sows. The virus that causes PRRS is endemic in most countries where pigs are raised, and vaccines have generally not been able to stop its spread.

The Roslin Institute at the University of Edinburgh and biotechnology company Genus PLC are already working together to raise PRRS-resistant pigs. Funded by the Genus project and the Biotechnology and Life Sciences Research Council.

The researchers hope that the agreement between the Roslin Institute and Genus PLC will eventually create disease-resistant pigs that will be available to global pork markets.