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Just something interesting I came across on BBC News.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/4605202.stm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/4605202.stm
Scientists in Taiwan say they have bred three pigs that "glow in the dark".
They claim that while other researchers have bred partly fluorescent pigs, theirs are the only pigs in the world which are green through and through.
The pigs are transgenic, created by adding genetic material from jellyfish into a normal pig embryo.
The researchers hope the pigs will boost the island's stem cell research, as well as helping with the study of human disease.
The scientists, from National Taiwan University's Department of Animal Science and Technology, say that although the pigs glow, they are otherwise no different from any others.
Taiwan is not claiming a world first. Others have bred partially fluorescent pigs before; but the researchers insist the three pigs they have produced are better.
In daylight, their eyes and skin are green-tinged
They are the only ones that are green from the inside out. Even their heart and internal organs are green, the researchers say.
To create them, DNA from jellyfish was added to about 265 pig embryos which were implanted in eight different sows.
No, they have green fluorescent protein incorporated in their DNA.scott1 said:Were they expossed to raditon?
Monique said:No, they have green fluorescent protein incorporated in their DNA.
The Taiwan breeds green-glowing pigs are unique because they have been genetically modified to produce a green fluorescent protein, making them glow under certain lighting conditions. This is a result of genetic engineering techniques used by scientists.
Yes, the green-glowing pigs are safe to eat. The green fluorescent protein that causes them to glow does not affect the safety or nutritional value of the meat. The pigs undergo rigorous testing and regulation to ensure their safety before being approved for consumption.
Scientists used a technique called genetic engineering to create the green-glowing pigs. This involves inserting a gene for the green fluorescent protein into the pig's DNA, which then causes them to produce the protein in their bodies. This technology has been used in various other animals as well.
The purpose of creating green-glowing pigs is for scientific research and potential medical applications. The green fluorescent protein can act as a marker for tracking gene expression and studying diseases. It can also be used for drug development and testing.
The creation of green-glowing pigs has raised some ethical concerns. Some argue that it is unnatural and goes against the natural order of things. Others are concerned about the potential impact on the environment and the welfare of the animals. However, extensive research and regulation are put in place to ensure the safety and ethical treatment of the pigs.