GM lab creates chicken that cannot spread bird flu

[HuckleB]

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/gm-lab-creates-chicken-that-cannot-spread-bird-flu-2184280.html

"Scientists have developed a way of curbing the spread of avian flu with the help of genetically modified chickens that do not spread the virus.

The chickens have an extra piece of DNA inserted into their genomes which produces a "decoy" molecule that blocks the replication of the influenza virus and prevents transmission to the rest of the flock.

Researchers believe the breakthrough could eventually lead to the creation of GM poultry, pigs and other livestock that are fully resistant to a range of infectious diseases. They also said that the development could help to lower the risk of transmitting dangerous animal viruses to humans.

While consumers in Britain have been resistant to plant-based products containing GM ingredients, the scientists behind the GM chicken believe that the proposal to develop disease-resistant varieties might become acceptable due to concerns about animal welfare and the transmission of infections to humans. Laurence Tiley of Cambridge University, who was a key member of the research team, said: "We believe the attitude of the UK public to GM food depends on the nature and purpose of the genetic modification.

..."

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Hmmmmmmm.

[Sonoman]

1. This is what the "Bird Flu" bs was all about.

The Universal Poultry Model.

Texas A&M and some monster agribiz are also working on a Universal Swine Model. They have been trying to get a fertile swine model going since before the "Swine Flu" bs.

It's all quite simple, really.

Sonoman

[HuckleB]

2. Huh?

:shrug:

[Sonoman]

5. Patents

It is all about patents.

My cousin has been working on the Swine Model for quite a few years. He won't even tell me what entity is funding the research. If I were not so brain-dead this morning, I would go into more detail. Right now, I am having enough problems just coming up with the right words to try and stay comprehendable (is that even a word?).

Sonoman

[hughee99]

3. Up next, a whole new range of infectious diseases just for GM livestock. n/t

[mhatrw]

4. Pefect for chicken frankenfurters! n/t

[no_hypocrisy]

6. One more reason to eat organic.

[laconicsax]

7. Strangely, it tastes like pear.

[HuckleB]

8. Comice?

[laconicsax]

9. Bosc.