Have you ever dreamed of having a furry cat, but allergies discourage you from having such a pet? Recent research suggests that the cat allergy problem could be solved quite simply through the use of gene editing. This is hope for all allergy sufferers: researchers promise to create a genetic line of hypoallergenic cats that will be available to everyone, regardless of allergies.
Cat allergies are more common than you think
According to statistics, as many as 15% of the population is allergic to cats. Symptoms may vary – from a mild runny nose to severe asthma symptoms, including anaphylactic shock. I am both an allergy sufferer (fortunately, I do not suffer from contact with animals) and an asthmatic (however, this is mainly due to genetics and the resulting deficiency of one of the hormones that regulate the immune system’s response against its own tissues, including those in the lungs and liver).
The main culprit in the context of cat allergies is the Fel d 1 proteinwhich is found in the saliva, sebaceous and tear glands of cats. The function of this allergen is not fully understood, but it is thought that it may play a role in skin protection or chemical communication between cats. So remember that you are not allergic strictly to the cat – the allergy is rather to the protein produced by its body. Therefore, buying a “sphinx” will not work, you may still experience symptoms of an increased reaction of your own immune system.
Scientists from InBio decided to take a closer look at the genes responsible for the production of Fel d 1. The study included the analysis of the CH1 and CH2 gene sequences in 276 cats, both domestic and wild, such as pumas and cheetahs. The results indicate high variability of these genes, which suggests that Fel d 1 may be virtually unimportant from a biological point of view for cats. Moreover, some species of wild cats have mutations that naturally reduce the production of this protein without causing any health problems.
How does CRISPR work?
The use of CRISPR technology opens up new possibilities in the fight against cat allergies. To put it very simply, this technique allows for the removal of the CH1 and CH2 genes, which significantly reduces the production of the Fel d 1 protein. Preliminary tests suggest that such modifications may be safe for cats’ health. However, before introducing the change on a larger scale, further research is necessary to confirm the safety of the procedure.
Check also: Silk is stronger than Kevlar. This is the power of genetic engineering!
If the issue of gene editing in cats is accepted, it will open the way to “creating” hypoallergenic cats. People suffering from allergies who have so far had to give up the presence of a cat in their home will be happy. In practice, this means you can have an animal without worrying about its health. And contact with such an animal has a positive impact on humans: thanks to them we are calmer, we meet our needs of caring for a smaller, dependent animal and… simply put, a home with a dog or a cat is simply happier and full of joy. I have had a cheerful, feisty chihuahua for almost a year now and I wouldn’t trade my Yoda for any other animal.
The problem is ethics
The topic of gene editing in animals is controversial. Critics point to ethical issues and potential health risks for cats. There are also questions about the long-term effects of such changes and their impact on the wild furry population. If no problems arise during the conduct of the research, all these arguments will fall apart. However, ethicists will still have doubts. According to them, “editing” or “correcting” living organisms using such powerful tools is too much human interference in this world and its order.
Check also: They edited children’s genes like in an RPG game. They face 3 years in prison
For people who had to give up having a cat due to allergies, this is a chance to make their dreams come true. Moreover, success in this field may inspire further use of gene editing to improve the quality of life of both humans and animals.
Research on Fel d 1 and the use of CRISPR technology is interesting news in the context of eliminating cat allergies. The prospect of having hypoallergenic pets seems closer than ever. Whether you prefer dogs or cats, science is proposing better and better solutions to what are essentially mundane problems. The only question is whether this will be done while maintaining animal welfare. This is the most important thing.
Source: antyweb.pl
