Scientists have bred a GM calf with resistance to bovine viral diarrhea

it is explained that earlier scientists were able to identify an important cellular receptor (CD46) and the area where the virus binds to this receptor, causing infection in cattle . In a new study , scientists modified the binding site of the virus to block infection.

The publication notes that the task of the researchers was to use gene editing technology to change the CD46 receptor. The goal is to prevent the virus from attaching, but the receptor must have retained its normal functions.

First, scientists conducted an experiment on cell culture. With promising results in the lab, Acceligen edited bovine cells to create genetically modified embryos. These embryos were transplanted into surrogate cows.

The first CD46 gene-edited female calf named Ginger was born healthy on July 19, 2021. She was observed for several months and later exposed to the virus. For a week, she was kept with another dairy calf infected with bovine viral diarrhea. According to scientists, Ginger's cells showed a marked decrease in susceptibility to the virus, she did not show any adverse HEALTH effects.

Observations on GM animals continue.

Scientists have noticed that gene editing in farm animals for disease resistance is also an opportunity to reduce the use of antibiotics in agriculture.