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How can gene editing change traits in farm animals?

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CRISPR-Cas9; gene editing — gene editing The CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing complex from the bacterium *Streptococcus pyogenes*.

Gene editing, particularly through technologies like CRISPR-Cas9, allows researchers to make precise, targeted changes to the DNA of livestock. By introducing, removing, or replacing specific nucleotide sequences, scientists can modify how genes are expressed or alter the structure of the proteins they encode, which directly affects an animal's observable traits.1

In the context of agriculture, these techniques are used to improve traits of economic significance. For example, gene editing can be employed to:12

Enhance Productivity: Scientists can modify or replace dysfunctional genes that limit growth, yield, or nutrient use efficiency.3
Improve Health and Resilience: Researchers can target genes to increase an animal's resistance to diseases or environmental stressors.34
Correct Genetic Defects: Similar to potential applications in human gene therapy, gene editing can be used to repair mutations that cause genetic diseases in animals.14

While these advancements offer potential benefits for agricultural sustainability and productivity, they also raise important ethical considerations regarding the introduction of potentially harmful traits and the long-term impacts of genetic modification.56