Living Biofactories: How Genetically Engineered Animals are Transforming Therapeutics
Biotechnology has come a long way from brewing antibiotics in microbial cultures to creating fully engineered organisms capable of producing life-saving medicines. Among the most fascinating innovations is the use of genetically engineered animals as “living biofactories.” These animals can be designed to produce human proteins, enzymes, and antibodies with high efficiency, offering a scalable and cost-effective solution to meet global healthcare demands.
The Concept of Living Biofactories
At the core of this idea is transgenesis the introduction of foreign DNA into an animal’s genome so it can express human proteins. Instead of using industrial fermenters filled with bacteria or yeast, scientists can engineer animals like goats, cows, chickens, or rabbits to secrete therapeutic proteins directly in their milk, eggs, or even blood.
For example:
- A goat can be engineered to produce human antithrombin (a clot-preventing protein) in its milk.
- A chicken can be modified so its eggs contain human growth factors or monoclonal antibodies.
- A cow can be engineered to secrete human lactoferrin, a protein important for immunity.
