Gene-edited "micropigs" to be sold as pets in China

The Breakthrough

BGI, a genomics institute based in Shenzhen, was able to create micropigs via a gene-editing technique that grow to only 15kg when mature. These pigs were initially made for human disease research, but the institute has recently decided to put them up for sale as pets at $1,600. Technical director Yong Li mentioned that this decision was merely for them to "better evaluate the market." The gene-editing technique also creates the opportunity for individuals to customize the coloring of the pig.

The Implications

Geneticist Jens Boch believes that applying gene editing to animals isn't a complete surprise, however he believes that the animals' health and welfare shouldn't be put at risk or be taken lightly. The decision to sell the micropigs as pets was made due to a pre-existing demand, but this leaves many worried about the long term health implications for the pig. It's not far-fetched to believe that dogs and cats will be next on the list. Does gene-editing pets cross some ethical boundary, or is it simply a more efficient method for conventional breeding? It seems as though the public has yet to decide.