The researchers inserted a gene into a part of the catfish genome that codes for an important reproductive hormone. Received
Aquaculture not only contributes to changeclimate, but also suffers from its consequences. Catfish account for over 50% of US farmed fish demand; however, almost 45% of the total population do not even reach the fry stage, threatening the environment and the sustainability of the industry.
Catfish are not only very susceptible to bacterialinfections and abiotic stresses, but have also developed resistance to antibiotics. Scientists are trying to give these freshwater farm fish an edge by giving them a disease-fighting gene from alligators.
The CRISPR system has revolutionized the modificationgenes, making gene editing more accurate, efficient and affordable. A team led by Rex Dunham and Baofeng Su of Auburn University in Alabama used Cas9, one of the enzymes produced by the CRISPR system, to integrate the alligator cathelicidin gene into catfish DNA.
Survival of cathelicidin transgenic fish on100-400% higher than their local counterparts. The sterility of these hybrids helps prevent their impact on ecosystems and "prevents the creation of transgenic or domesticated genotypes in the natural environment," the scientists say.
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