For the past decade it has been possible to modify the genetic composition of farm animals by transfer of individual genes. Microinjection is the predominant method used to transfer genes into farm animals. Current research effort is devoted to improvement of productivity traits, enhancement of animal health, and production of biomedically useful human health products. Transgenic research initially involved genes coding for growth hormone (GH) and growth hormone releasing factor (GRF). More recent investigations have attempted to stimulate muscle development, to use bacterial enzymes so animals can synthesize certain essential amino acids, to induce expression of specific immunoglobulin or disease-resistance genes, and to direct expression of human proteins to the mammary gland, specific organs, or specific cells for production of useful human health products. The main limitations to progress are the lack of useful cloned genes for productivity traits and disease resistance and the insufficient knowledge of mechanisms involved in regulation of transgenes. Products produced by genetically modified animals will receive extensive scrutiny by regulatory agencies before consumption by humans is permitted. Currently no products are under evaluation for approval, but clinical evaluation of some rare biomedical products may begin soon.
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