Scientists have created "fat-free" pigs

The study was conducted by an international group of researchers in China and the United Kingdom, reports BGR.

The pig genome was changed using CRISPR / Cas9 technology, thanks to which the UPC1 gene responsible for thermoregulation appeared in the piglets. This gene is found in most mammals, but pigs lack it, so they need a thick layer of fat to regulate body temperature.
In total, 13 attempts have been made to change the genotype of pig embryos. Three of them were ultimately successful.

To the world there were 12 piglets, in the bodies of which in the future will be on average 24% less fat than in ordinary pigs. At the same time, they will be healthy, thanks to the rapid metabolism.

Such a change in the genotype, according to scientists, will allow pigs to survive in colder climates, and also help to increase meat production.

The ethics of creating genetically modified animals are the subject of much discussion, and there are already many laws that prohibit the use of such animals for food in many countries, including the United States. On the other hand, in China this issue is poorly regulated, therefore similar experiments in this country are possible.

However, the researchers did not say that pigs without fat will eventually be able to get to livestock farms.