Transgenic Animals

Definition

Transgenic animals are organisms that have had genes from another species inserted into their genome using biotechnology techniques. This genetic modification allows them to express new traits or produce specific substances, making them valuable in research, agriculture, and medicine. By studying these animals, scientists can gain insights into gene function and develop new therapies for human diseases.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transgenic animals are often created using techniques like microinjection, where DNA is directly injected into a fertilized egg.
2. One of the most famous examples of a transgenic animal is the 'GloFish,' a genetically modified zebra fish that fluoresces due to the incorporation of a jellyfish gene.
3. Transgenic animals can be used to produce proteins, hormones, and antibodies that have therapeutic uses in humans.
4. Ethical considerations surrounding transgenic animals include animal welfare, ecological impacts, and potential unintended consequences of genetic modifications.
5. Research on transgenic animals has contributed significantly to our understanding of genetics, disease mechanisms, and potential treatments for various conditions.

Review Questions

• How do transgenic animals contribute to scientific research and what methods are used to create them?
  • Transgenic animals contribute to scientific research by allowing scientists to study gene function and disease mechanisms in vivo. They are often created using methods like microinjection or viral vectors to insert foreign DNA into their genomes. This helps researchers understand how specific genes affect development, health, and behavior, leading to advances in medicine and biotechnology.
• Discuss the ethical implications associated with the creation and use of transgenic animals in research.
  • The ethical implications of transgenic animals include concerns about animal welfare, as genetic modifications may lead to health issues or suffering. Additionally, there are ecological concerns regarding the potential impact on wild populations if transgenic individuals were to escape into nature. Researchers must weigh the potential benefits of their studies against these ethical considerations, ensuring humane treatment and environmental safety.
• Evaluate the role of transgenic animals in biopharming and the implications for pharmaceutical production.
  • Transgenic animals play a significant role in biopharming by producing valuable pharmaceuticals such as antibodies or hormones in their milk or blood. This method offers a cost-effective way to manufacture complex proteins that are difficult to produce through traditional methods. However, the implications for pharmaceutical production also raise questions about regulation, public acceptance, and potential risks associated with genetic modification, highlighting the need for thorough evaluation before widespread implementation.

Related terms

Genetic Engineering: A process that involves altering the genetic material of an organism to achieve desired traits or functions.

Knockout Mouse: A genetically modified mouse in which one or more genes have been deliberately inactivated to study the effects of the gene loss.

Biopharming: The use of genetically modified organisms, such as transgenic animals, to produce pharmaceuticals and other valuable products.