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People With Dog Allergies Can Snuggle Up to These 2 Beagles
Newser • • science
Key Points:
- Scientists have genetically edited beagle dogs, Alfie and Bailey, to eliminate the main gene responsible for producing allergy-causing proteins, resulting in hypoallergenic pets.
- The genetic modification was done by editing dog skin cells and transferring the edited code into eggs implanted in a surrogate beagle, leading to the birth of two healthy female pups in September 2024.
- Allergy tests showed no reaction to the saliva and dander of the modified beagles, while reactions occurred with samples from typical hypoallergenic breeds like poodles and goldendoodles.
- Experts warn that this development could reduce adoption rates for shelter and rescue animals, as it may encourage more people to seek engineered hypoallergenic pets instead of adopting strays.
- Researchers emphasize the need to monitor long-term health effects of the genetic tweak and develop affordable commercialization methods to make hypoallergenic pets accessible.
