The FDA has approved a CRISPR gene-edited pig developed by Genus for human consumption, aimed at combating porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), a highly damaging virus affecting pig production. PRRS causes significant economic losses, estimated over $300 million annually in the US. By utilizing gene-editing technology, Genus has created pigs that show immunity to 99% of known PRRS variants, blocking the virus's entry into cells. The company seeks further regulatory approval in other key markets before introducing gene-edited pork, potentially by next year.
Using CRISPR, the company knocked out a receptor that allowed the PRRS virus to enter cells, effectively barring it from infecting its host.
It's been called the 'most economically important disease' affecting pig producers, since it can have a devastating effect on their bottom lines.
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