What sounds like science fiction has become a reality thanks to a new genetic engineering technique employed by scientific researchers at the U.S. Mayo Clinic. While 5-year-olds across the country may be hoping the technology will be used to breed kittens available to the average consumer, their creation has not been for novelty purposes, as amusing as the image of a neon cat may be.
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| Although the modified cats appear to be normal in regular light, they glow under UV lights. |
The glow-in-the-dark felines have been lab-bred as part of a medical study about HIV and AIDS. By modifying their DNA with two linked genes - one that fights off Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and one that promotes fluorescence - scientists can track whether the technique has worked by simply looking to see if they glow. The creation of the glowing protein in their tissues indicates that the virus-resistant gene has taken effect as well. Because the glowing cats gave birth to glowing kittens, it is possible that protection against viral invasion can be passed through generations.
According to an article from Daily Mail UK, "the research will speed up the search for vaccines and treatments against HIV, the Aids virus that has claimed more than 30 million lives around the world".
FIV and HIV are similar in that they both attack the body's immune system and reduce protection against infection and disease. The primary source of spreading the virus is biting, so it is important to be aware of the health history of neighborhood cats or to keep your kitty indoors. Although the research findings of the study prove its significance, whether genetic manipulation of animals is ethical is highly debated. Even if their existence provides valuable insight into the future of AIDS prevention, is it humane to force them to live their life out in laboratories? Both sides of the argument have solid support and will potentially continue to battle one another for years to come.
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| Is animal testing ethical? |
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