Scientists Create Hybrids For Human Consumption

Scientists at Auburn University have genetically modified catfish using the CRISPR technology and adding the cathelicidin gene of an alligator to it.

The cathelicidin gene is an antimicrobial peptide found in the intestines that helps organisms fight diseases.

The addition of this gene has heightened disease resistance among the catfish as compared to wild catfish, with survival rates being two- to five-fold higher. This increased resistance is significant, as diseases are a major problem in catfish farming, with around 45% of catfish fingerlings dying from infectious diseases.

Catfish farming is a major industry in the US, with an estimated 307 million pounds of live catfish being produced in 2021, primarily in the southern states. Catfish make up over 50% of US demand for farm-raised fish. However, the process of farming them is resource-intensive and often leads to diseases spreading among the fish. Additionally, the use of antibiotics is becoming less effective in combating these diseases.

The researchers also noted some uncertainties in using CRISPR technology on fish, as it is primarily used and studied in mammals. The study has not yet been peer-reviewed. However, the researchers hope that the alligator and catfish gene-editing can be used in combination with other catfish breeding techniques to help farmers with their catfish yields.

While some consumers may be uneasy about the idea of their catfish sharing DNA with an alligator, the lead researchers of the study, Rex Dunham and Baofeng Su, have stated that the hybrid meat would be perfectly safe for consumption. In fact, Dunham stated that he would eat it without hesitation.

In conclusion, the genetic modification of catfish with the cathelicidin gene of an alligator has the potential to greatly improve the yield and reduce the loss of farmed catfish, which is a significant industry in the US. Although there are uncertainties and some discomfort among consumers, the lead researchers have stated that the hybrid catfish meat would be safe to eat.