Genus R&D is dedicated to researching and developing innovative animal breeding technologies to continue to support a more sustainable food system for generations to come.
These include:
- Understanding the links between DNA and animal characteristics and how to positively influence them. We breed successive generations of animals by using DNA analysis to select animals with the most desirable traits in breeding herds; we have a database of more than 20 million animals DNA in our systems.
- Creating the technology platform IntelliGen Technologies. This technology helps with screening and processing semen for desirable traits, including the female gender essential for dairy farmers in replacing their heifers.
- Developing pigs through gene editing that are resistant to PRRSv (Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus), a deadly disease that causes animal death and suffering as well as the loss of billions of dollars in farm production worldwide.*
We maintain strong relationships with key universities and likeminded collaborators
In partnership with Tropic Biosciences, Genus will employ the Gene Editing induced Gene Silencing (GEiGS) technology to accelerate improvements in animal health by decreasing animal disease and unnecessary suffering.
Both the University of Missouri and the Roslin Institute helped develop and test the early stages of Genus’ work on gene editing in animals which could minimize animal sickness and improve the sustainability of agriculture.
In partnership, the University of Missouri scientists discovered the breakthrough on PRRS (Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus) resistance in pigs. PRRS is a virus that cannot be effectively prevented or eliminated through traditional veterinary medicine or vaccination.
Gene Editing Could Create Disease Resistant Animals
*PRRSv resistant pigs are not offered for purchase at this time, but are an investigational product being reviewed for approval by the United States Food and Drug Administration. Genus R&D and its affiliates are committed to obtaining all required regulatory approvals prior to offering PRRSv resistant pigs to the market. See our Gene Editing Ethical Commitments for more information.