Published in Scientific Works. Series C. Veterinary Medicine, Vol. LXXI, Issue 1
Written by Raluca-Aniela GHEORGHE-IRIMIA, Dana TĂPĂLOAGĂ, Cosmin ȘONEA, Lucian-Ionel ILIE, Makki Khalaf Hussein AL DULAIMI, Alexandru USTUROI, Paul-Rodian TĂPĂLOAGĂ
Transgenic animals represent a key achievement in modern biotechnology, providing novel solutions in industries such as agriculture, medicine, and environmental studies. Techniques such as microinjection, somatic cell nuclear transfer, and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing have facilitated the development of transgenic animals by allowing precise genetic modifications. These advancements have led to the development of livestock that not only exhibit improved growth rates and disease resistance but also serve as bioreactors to produce human proteins and monoclonal antibodies. However, the application of transgenic technology raises significant ethical considerations, particularly regarding animal welfare and ecological impacts. The potential for unintended consequences, such as insertional mutagenesis and epigenetic silencing of transgenes, needs thorough evaluation of the long-term effects on both the transgenic animals and their ecosystems. Furthermore, public perception and regulatory frameworks around genetic engineering must be addressed to ensure responsible development and application of these technologies. This mini-review aims to synthesise current advances in transgenic animal technology, investigate their various applications, and critically evaluate the ethical concerns of their use.
[Read full article] [Citation]
