Transgenic animals are organisms that have been genetically modified. The spelling of "transgenic" is /trænˈsɛnɪk/. The first syllable, "tran," is pronounced with the vowel sound /æ/ as in "cat" and the consonant sound /t/. The second syllable, "sge," is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɛ/ as in "bed" and the consonant sound /n/. The final syllable, "ic," is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɪ/ as in "sit" and the consonant sound /k/. Together, the word is pronounced "tran-sen-ik."
Transgenic animals refer to those organisms, specifically animals, whose genetic material has been modified deliberately, typically through the introduction of foreign DNA or genes from another species, to exhibit certain desired traits or characteristics. This genetic modification produces offspring that inherit these altered genes, passing them on to subsequent generations.
The process of creating transgenic animals involves the insertion of the desired gene into the reproductive cells of the animal, such as fertilized eggs or embryos, using techniques like gene transfer or genetic engineering. These modified genes are then integrated into the animal's genome, becoming a permanent part of their DNA.
The purpose of creating transgenic animals varies, but it primarily revolves around scientific research or commercial applications. In scientific research, transgenic animals serve as valuable models for studying human diseases and genetic disorders, allowing scientists to investigate the impact of specific genes on the development and progression of various conditions. Moreover, they can also be utilized to test potential treatments and therapies.
In commercial applications, transgenic animals are often used to enhance agricultural practices and improve livestock productivity. This can involve introducing genes that enhance growth rates, increase disease resistance, or produce desirable traits such as leaner meat or improved milk production.
Overall, transgenic animals offer a means to manipulate genetic material, providing researchers and industries with valuable tools to further knowledge, health, and production efficiencies in animal species.
The word "transgenic" is derived from two Latin roots: "trans" meaning "across" or "beyond" and "genic" meaning "produced or caused by".
"Transgenic animals" refers to animals that have had their DNA selectively altered by introducing genes from another species. The prefix "trans-" in this context emphasizes the transfer or crossing of genetic material across species boundaries. It is commonly used in the field of genetics and biotechnology to describe organisms that have been genetically modified through the introduction of foreign genes.