Unfortunately, these pigs were also affected in negative ways by the expression of the transgene. Obviously, we did not understand how pigs work and what the consequence of the transgene would be. At this time, the emphasis is on controlling the expression of the transgene so that postitive effects are possible on growth rate and leanness but negative effects on fertility and soundness are minimized. It is clear that when we know more, we probably will be able to produce pigs by design that will be better for consumers and for producers. These pigs will be the barbeque of the future.
Pigs happen to be very much like people in many ways.
This fact can be used to advantage in medical research and therapy. In this project, a lowly farm animal has become elevated to be the object of medical research. Most importantly, clinical therapies are currently being tested using the transgenic pigs. The transgenic pigs bring hope to a previously hopeless situation. We have all heard about the use of heart valves from pigs being used to treat people.