Transgenic animals

Definition

Transgenic animals are genetically modified organisms that have had a foreign gene intentionally inserted into their genome. This genetic alteration allows these animals to express specific traits or produce substances that are not naturally found in their species, which can be crucial for research, agriculture, and medicine.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transgenic animals can be used as models for human diseases, allowing researchers to study the pathophysiology of these diseases in a living organism.
2. One of the first successful transgenic animals was a mouse created in 1981, which has since paved the way for other species, including pigs, sheep, and goats.
3. Transgenic animals can be engineered to produce valuable proteins, such as antibodies or hormones, which can then be harvested for medical purposes.
4. The process of creating transgenic animals often involves techniques like microinjection of DNA into embryos or the use of viral vectors to introduce foreign genes.
5. Ethical considerations surround the creation and use of transgenic animals, including concerns about animal welfare and the potential impacts on biodiversity.

Review Questions

• How do transgenic animals contribute to advancements in biomedical research?
  • Transgenic animals play a significant role in biomedical research by serving as models for studying human diseases. By introducing specific genes related to diseases into these animals, researchers can observe how these alterations affect biological processes and disease progression. This helps scientists understand disease mechanisms, test potential therapies, and evaluate drug efficacy in a living organism.
• Discuss the ethical implications of using transgenic animals in research and agriculture.
  • The use of transgenic animals raises several ethical concerns, particularly regarding animal welfare. Critics argue that genetic modifications may lead to health issues or suffering in these animals. Additionally, there are concerns about the long-term ecological impacts if transgenic animals escape into the wild or interbreed with native populations. As a result, researchers must carefully consider ethical guidelines and regulatory frameworks when working with transgenic organisms.
• Evaluate the potential benefits and risks associated with the use of transgenic animals for biopharming purposes.
  • Transgenic animals offer significant benefits for biopharming by enabling the production of high-value pharmaceuticals and proteins that can be used in medicine. For example, genetically modified goats can produce milk containing therapeutic proteins. However, there are risks involved, including the possibility of contamination of food supplies with genetically modified material and unforeseen health effects on consumers. Balancing these benefits against potential risks is crucial for the responsible advancement of biopharming technologies.

Related terms

genetic engineering: The direct manipulation of an organism's genes using biotechnology to alter its characteristics.

knockout mouse: A genetically engineered mouse in which one or more genes have been turned off or 'knocked out' to study the effects of those genes on development and disease.

biopharming: The use of genetically modified plants and animals to produce pharmaceuticals and other valuable substances.