Scientists teach chickens to make human proteins inside their eggs
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Biotechnology & health research· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
Scientists at the National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology (NIANP) successfully genetically modified chickens to produce human proteins, such as Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF), inside their eggs.
Background
The NIANP in Bengaluru developed a method to alter primordial germ cells in chickens to produce human proteins. This breakthrough aims to lower the production costs of therapeutic proteins essential for stem cell research and advanced therapies.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyNIANP: National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology located in Bengaluru.
- S&TLeukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF): A protein crucial for stem cell research and advanced therapies.
- S&TMethodology: Modification of primordial germ cells to allow protein production to be passed down through generations.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the potential of bio-manufacturing and genetic engineering in making advanced biomedical therapies more accessible and affordable in India.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Cost-efficiency: Reducing high manufacturing overheads of recombinant proteins through avian-based production systems.
- Ethical-regulatory: Balancing the advancement of genetic modification in livestock with biosafety and food security concerns.
Keywords: Biomanufacturing · Genetic Engineering · Therapeutic Proteins · Stem Cell Research · Bio-innovation
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