CRISPR Gene Editing Creates Flu-Resistant Chickens

Scientists have used CRISPR gene-editing technology to create chickens with some resistance to avian influenza, according to a study published in Nature Communications. While the research shows promise, it also highlights the limitations and potential risks of the approach. Breakthrough infections still occurred, especially at high virus doses, and the virus quickly adapted when only one gene was edited. Creating flu-resistant chickens will require editing multiple genes and proceeding carefully to avoid driving further virus evolution. However, if successful, gene-edited chickens could eliminate the need for routine vaccination and provide a new way to make permanent changes in disease resistance.