- Transgenic animals are those whose genome is altered by introducing genes from another species.
- They are produced by methods such as DNA microinjection, retrovirus-mediated transfer, and embryonic stem cell transfer.
- Transgenic animals help in studying gene function, regulation, and normal growth and development.
- They are used as disease models to understand disorders like cancer and Alzheimer’s and to develop medicines and vaccines.
- Transgenic animals produce biological products (e.g., human proteins in milk) and are used for vaccine and chemical safety testing.
Definitions [2]
Define.
Biotechnology
The technique of bringing about improvements in living organisms by genetic modifications and hybridization, for the welfare of human beings is known as ‘Biotechnology’.
Definition: Transgenic Animal
A transgenic animal is an animal whose genome has been artificially modified to contain one or more genes from another species.
Key Points
Key Points: Biotechnology
- Biotechnology involves the use of biological systems, cells, and biomolecules along with genetic and non-genetic techniques for human welfare.
- It integrates sciences such as cytology, biochemistry, molecular biology, and genetic engineering and has major applications in agriculture and pharmacy.
- Biotechnology enables production of antibiotics, vaccines, hormones (insulin), antibodies, and development of high-yield crop varieties through tissue culture and gene manipulation.
- Major benefits include increased crop yield, development of disease- and stress-resistant varieties, and reduced expenditure on disease control.
- In India, biotechnology is promoted by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) established in 1986, under which several national research institutes function.
Key Points: Transgenic Animal
