A research team from the Roslin Institute at the University of Edinburgh has developed, through genetic editing, a line of pigs capable of resisting classical swine fever (CSF), a highly contagious viral disease that severely affects pig farming.

The key to this innovation lies in modifying the gene that encodes the DNAJC14 protein, which the virus needs to replicate. After editing this gene, the modified animals were exposed to the virus without showing symptoms, while the unmodified pigs became ill with the typical signs of CSF. Moreover, no adverse effects were observed in the development or health of the edited pigs, and the possibility of viral transmission was greatly reduced.

The research, published in the journal Trends in Biotechnology, suggests that this technique does not replace but rather complements vaccines and biosecurity measures on farms, forming part of a broader strategy for preventing animal diseases. The study also points out that the method could be adapted to other livestock species to resist related viruses, opening the door to a more sustainable and innovative livestock industry.

This breakthrough raises important questions about ethics, regulation, and public perception of genetic editing in farm animals. However, from a technical and health perspective, it represents a significant step towards reducing economic losses and risks to animal health.