CRISPRed Pigs: Genus Creates PRRS-resistant Pigs Using CRISPR Technology
Summary:
– Genus, a British animal genetics firm, has used CRISPR-Cas9 technology to produce a population of pigs that are resistant to the porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) virus.
– The PRRS virus causes respiratory and reproductive problems in pigs, leading to significant economic losses in the pig farming industry.
– Genus used the gene-editing tool CRISPR to make targeted changes to the DNA of the pigs, introducing a mutation that prevented the PRRS virus from entering the cells.
Exscientia Fires CEO Over “Inappropriate” Relationships
Summary:
– Exscientia, an artificial intelligence (AI) drug discovery company, has dismissed its founder, CEO, and principal executive officer Andrew Hopkins, PhD, following an investigation into “inappropriate” relationships with two employees.
– The company concluded that Dr. Hopkins had violated its code of conduct and created a hostile work environment.
– Exscientia has appointed a new CEO, and the company plans to move forward in its mission to discover and develop medicines using AI and machine learning.
Julianna LeMieux Recaps Time at AGBT 2024
Summary:
– Julianna LeMieux, PhD, Deputy Editor in Chief at GEN, provides a recap of her experiences at the Advances in Genome Biology and Technology (AGBT) conference in 2024.
– LeMieux highlights various presentations and discussions at the conference, including advancements in genome sequencing technologies, CRISPR-based gene editing, and personalized medicine.
– She also discusses the importance of collaborations between academia, industry, and government in driving innovation in genomics and biotechnology.
Interview with Christian Henry, CEO of PacBio
Summary:
– Christian Henry, president and chief executive officer at PacBio, discusses the company’s latest developments and future plans in an interview.
– PacBio specializes in long-read sequencing technologies and aims to offer solutions for understanding the complexity of the genome.
– Henry highlights the potential of long-read sequencing in enabling comprehensive and accurate genomic analysis, which can have significant implications for research, diagnostics, and therapeutic development.
Author’s Take:
Genus’s achievement in creating PRRS-resistant pigs using CRISPR technology is a significant breakthrough in animal genetics and could be a game-changer for the pig farming industry. Meanwhile, Exscientia’s decision to remove its CEO due to “inappropriate” relationships highlights the importance of maintaining a professional work environment within AI-driven companies. AGBT 2024 demonstrated the exciting advancements in genomics and biotechnology, emphasizing the need for collaboration to drive further progress. Finally, the interview with PacBio’s CEO showcases the potential of long-read sequencing in revolutionizing genomic analysis. These developments highlight the ongoing innovation and impact of technology in the fields of genetics and biotechnology.
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