Gene Editing Breakthroughs: Transforming Livestock in 2023

Understanding Gene Editing in Livestock

Gene editing represents a revolutionary approach to modifying the DNA of living organisms. Recent advancements at SKUAST’s Embryo Biotechnology Lab in Srinagar highlight the potential of this technology in livestock enhancement. Researchers employed the CRISPR-Cas9 technique to make precise alterations to a specific gene in the Kashmir Merino sheep.

The Myostatin Gene and Its Role

The focus of the modification was the myostatin gene, which naturally regulates muscle growth in animals. By editing this gene, researchers successfully increased the muscle mass of the sheep by an impressive 30 percent. This significant enhancement holds several benefits for farmers and the agricultural sector.

Benefits of Gene Editing in Sheep

• Enhanced Muscle Mass: The edited myostatin gene facilitates larger muscle growth, resulting in higher meat yields for farmers.
• Improved Fibre Quality: By targeting genes like FGF5, the quality of wool and fibre can be enhanced, benefiting the textile industry.
• Disease Resistance: Gene editing can also focus on genes linked to disease susceptibility, promoting healthier and more resilient livestock.
• Adaptation to Climate Change: This technology enables animals to better withstand environmental challenges, including heat and disease.
• Economic Advantages: Increased productivity means farmers can yield more meat, milk, or wool from the same number of animals, enhancing income and food security.

Future Implications of Gene Editing

The success of the gene editing project with Kashmir Merino sheep marks a significant milestone in India's genetic research landscape. It not only offers new avenues for livestock breeding but also addresses the pressing global challenge of food security. Beyond boosting animal productivity, gene editing could enable the production of therapeutic proteins in animal milk and enhance overall food sustainability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is gene editing and how does it work?
Answer: Gene editing is a technique that allows scientists to make precise changes to an organism's DNA. It works by using tools like CRISPR-Cas9 to target specific genes for modification.

Q2. What are the benefits of editing the myostatin gene in sheep?
Answer: Editing the myostatin gene in sheep increases muscle mass, leading to higher meat yields, and can also improve overall health and adaptability of the livestock.

Q3. How does gene editing contribute to food security?
Answer: Gene editing enhances livestock productivity, allowing farmers to produce more meat, milk, and wool, thus contributing to better food availability and security.

Q4. Can gene editing improve wool quality?
Answer: Yes, by targeting specific genes related to wool production, gene editing can enhance the quality and yield of wool, benefiting the textile industry.

Q5. What role does gene editing play in climate adaptation for livestock?
Answer: Gene editing can make animals more resilient to environmental stressors, such as heat and disease, helping them adapt to changing climates.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is the primary function of the myostatin gene in livestock?
A) Regulate fat storage
B) Control muscle growth
C) Enhance wool quality
D) Improve disease resistance
Correct Answer: B

Question 2: What technique was used to edit the genes of Kashmir Merino sheep?
A) CRISPR-Cas9
B) TALEN
C) ZFN
D) RNA interference
Correct Answer: A

Question 3: Which benefit does gene editing provide concerning climate change adaptation?
A) Increased reproduction rates
B) Enhanced muscle growth
C) Improved disease resistance
D) Greater feed efficiency
Correct Answer: C

Question 4: How much muscle mass increase was achieved in the edited Kashmir Merino sheep?
A) 10 percent
B) 20 percent
C) 30 percent
D) 40 percent
Correct Answer: C

Question 5: What gene, when edited, can improve wool quality in sheep?
A) myostatin
B) FGF5
C) CRISPR
D) DNA polymerase
Correct Answer: B

Question 6: What is one economic advantage of gene editing in livestock?
A) Reduced feed costs
B) Increased animal lifespan
C) Higher productivity per animal
D) Lower disease incidence
Correct Answer: C

Question 7: What can gene editing potentially produce in animal milk?
A) Enhanced flavor
B) Therapeutic proteins
C) Increased fat content
D) Longer shelf life
Correct Answer: B