In-Vitro Puppies

           

Thanks to Cornell University, the first in-vitro puppies have been born. The primary end-goal of this project is to preserve endangered canine species, using gene-editing technologies to help eliminate hereditary diseases. The prevalence of these diseases are only heightened by interbreeding, a common practice amongst breeders. Out of nineteen embryos, seven fully healthy puppies were born. Researchers have been making attempts at canine in-vitro fertilization since the 1970’s but have been unsuccessful until now. Considering the similar diseases canines and humans share, they may lead to a better understanding and new scope of how to treat the same diseases in humans.

            This is obviously a beneficial and successful step in genetics and developmental biology. I think it is ironic that humans have found a way to rectify a heritable disease dilemma in dogs that might not exist if it wasn’t for humans in the first place with the relentless need for purebred dogs. Nevertheless, I think this is a safe way to explore artificial selection and genetic enhancements without causing too much disruption. If this were humans, there would be outrage fueled be ye ole “designer baby, slippery slope” argument. In the case of dogs, we are just helping make our family friends a little healthier and happier.

           

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/12/151209183500.htm

http://www.travislab.vet.cornell.edu/reproduction/dog-ivf-2/