Gene editing technologies: A pathway to reduce immune vulnerabilities and mitigate economic losses in the swine and poultry industries (Webinar Recording)-Gene editing technologies: A pathway to reduce immune vulnerabilities and mitigate economic losses in the swine and poultry industries (Webinar Recording)

Gene editing technologies: A pathway to reduce immune vulnerabilities and mitigate economic losses in the swine and poultry industries (Webinar Recording)

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Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar explored how genome editing could improve disease resistance and production in poultry and pigs.<br /><br />Dr. Paula Chen focused on avian influenza in poultry. She described how CRISPR-based editing can target host factors involved in viral entry and replication. Editing the chicken ANP32A protein reduced infection under some conditions, but the virus could still infect and spread, with mutations enabling it to use other ANP32 family members. Her lab is screening chicken genes for potential targets while accounting for embryo-lethal edits and other effects on animal health. She also discussed the long, specialized process required to produce gene-edited chickens and the varied regulations and public perceptions surrounding edited animals.<br /><br />Dr. Kee Ho Lee described genome editing in pigs, including methods using edited cells or embryos to produce modified animals. His central example was pigs with a disrupted CD163 gene, which were resistant to porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV). He also discussed applications in biomedical research and other agricultural goals, while emphasizing the costs, lengthy regulatory process, and need to assess animals’ overall health and performance.<br /><br />Both speakers noted that genome editing can accelerate genetic improvement, but successful applications require careful evaluation of unintended effects, disease risks, animal welfare, consumer acceptance, and international trade rules. They also highlighted the importance of public outreach and continued research to develop precise edits and clarify regulatory pathways.

Keywords

genome editing

poultry

pigs

CRISPR

avian influenza

ANP32A

host factors

gene-edited chickens

CD163

PRRSV

animal welfare

regulatory process

public acceptance