GM Cats and HIV Research
Genetically modified animals are often used in medical research. Feline AIDS is similar in its structure to that of human AIDS and HIV. Because of this scientists have used domesticated cats in their research. The cats that were used for the genetic engineering process showed a high level of resistance for the disease. Their genes were then spliced with that of a jelly fish and a rhesus macaque monkey. The genes they extracted from the jelly fish and the monkeys were used to amplify the original resistance of the cats. Researchers modified the cat genes and inserted them into feline embryos and implanted them in a female cat. The cat gave birth to a litter of five three of which survived. These cats are now being studied as they display high levels of protection in their white blood cells, lymph nodes and other organs. Some of the cats have already been mated with others to create a new generation of highly resistant felines. Researchers are studying how the introduction of these genes have allowed these cats to be resistant to the disease and how this can be used to treat HIV and AIDS in humans. Because of the addition of the jelly fish genes however, the cats now glow a fluorescent green color in their nails, fur and skin. But because of these glowing cats, people who suffer from HIV and AIDS may have a brighter future (1).
References
1.) Coghlan, Andy. (11 September 2011). Glowing Transgenic Cats Could Boost AIDS Research.
NewScientist. Retrieved from:
http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn20896-glowing-transgenic-cats-could-boost-aids-research.html
NewScientist. Retrieved from:
http://www.newscientist.com/article/dn20896-glowing-transgenic-cats-could-boost-aids-research.html