Transgenic animals are the animals with genome that was changed in order to bring genes coming from other species. These animals are all considered useful as ailment models & producers of the substances for the welfare of humans. Inserting a foreign gene to animals will be done successfully when the gene was inherited by the offspring. The rate of success for transgenesis is extremely low and those animals that were turned into transgenic ones should be mated or cloned.
Most of the transgenic animals that are produced today are mice. Transgenesis was initially performed with a mouse and the process was a large success. Since that time, transgenesis was performed on other types of animals like cattle, pigs, sheep and rabbits. There are reasons why transgenic animals are being produced. The first reason is that some of them are produced for certain economic traits. Other animals that underwent this process are designed to be disease models. These animals will be manipulated genetically to manifest some symptoms of a particular disease so that the scientists will be able to figure out the best treatment for that ailment.
The Pros of Transgenic Animals
Advances In Medicine
The research that is done on transgenic animals has helped to develop treatments and possible even cures for many chronic illnesses and diseases.
Insulin Production
The animals that they produce, create a large amount of insulin. This has aided thousands if not millions of people with diabetes who need insulin in order to live.
Faster Growth
Scientists have discovered how to make animals that grow significantly faster than normal ones. This would aid in the production of foods and even help to lower the cost of meat.
The Cons of Transgenic Animals
Unethical
Many people argue that changing the natural cells of an animal is completely unethical and goes against many morals and values.
Unknown Side Effects
The full long term effects are not yet understood. The meat and medicines derived from transgenic animals could be mutated and cause further illness.
Harms The Animals
The opposition of transgenic animals also argues that the procedures and testing that the animals are subjected to are inhumane and painful. The animals are often given diseases and illnesses that kill them.
How Do You Feel about Transgenic Animals?
The concept behind the creation of transgenic animals is one of the most interesting topics within the world of science today. It cannot be denied that transgenic animals bring good to all human beings most especially to those people who are sick with some diseases like diabetes and sickle cell anemia. With these animals, they won’t have to endure their sufferings. However, transgenesis is not a good for animals as these living things don’t benefit from this scientific process. What can you say about this matter now?
