In a historic move for agricultural biotechnology, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted regulatory approval for the use of gene-edited pigs developed by Genus plc that are resistant to Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS), a highly contagious viral disease that has long burdened the swine industry.
The approved gene edit, known as the PRRS-Resistant Pig (PRP) trait, works by modifying a specific gene (CD163) in pigs that the PRRS virus typically exploits to enter cells. By disabling the virus’s entry point without affecting the animal’s overall health or development, these gene-edited pigs are able to naturally resist infection.
PRRS is one of the most economically devastating livestock diseases in the U.S., responsible for respiratory illness, reproductive failure and substantial mortality in pig populations.
The availability of PRRS-resistant pigs could significantly reduce the need for antibiotics and vaccines, improving animal welfare and lowering production losses across the pork supply chain.
The FDA’s assessment concluded that the gene-edited pigs do not raise safety concerns for consumption and that the genetic change is stable across generations. This marks one of the first FDA approvals for a gene-edit in a food-producing animal aimed at disease resistance, signaling a major milestone for precision breeding and sustainable agriculture.
With commercialization plans already in progress, Genus’s PRRS-resistant pigs may soon help reshape the future of livestock farming, making pork production more resilient and environmentally responsible.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute veterinary or agricultural advice. All biotechnology innovations mentioned are based on publicly available regulatory updates as of the date of publication. For specific guidance regarding animal health or food safety, consult relevant professionals or regulatory authorities.
