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GM animals

Genetically modified animals, known as transgenic animals, have been genetically modified to create new characteristics. An animal can be genetically modified in several ways, for example by removing genes from its DNA structure or by adding new genes from a different animal or from a human.

Transgenic animals are playing an increasingly important role in the discovery and development of new medicines. They enable scientists to better understand the role of genes in specific diseases, to develop more targeted treatments and to more accurately predict possible side effects associated with new drugs.

Most transgenic animals (over 95 per cent) used in biomedical research are mice. Transgenic rats, pigs and sheep are also used. The use of transgenic mice is helping to reduce the number of other animals needed for medical research. For example GSK has helped to develop a new safety test for the polio vaccine that uses transgenic mice, rather than monkeys.

There have been concerns about the use of transgenic animals in research. In particular that these animals suffer more abnormalities, are more likely to be destroyed and that they could have a negative impact on wild populations if they are accidentally released. Some people find the whole concept unethical.

Genetic modification is subject to government regulation and can only be used where there is no other way to pursue important research, or where it may significantly improve current methods. We are constantly improving our procedures to improve accuracy and reduce the number of animals needed for transgenic research. No transgenic animal is allowed to breed with wild populations.

Our Code of Practice for animal research ensures that we minimise pain and suffering and provide high standards of care and treatment for all laboratory animals, including transgenic animals. In addition, our monitoring of all transgenic laboratory animals is designed to ensure that any abnormalities or suffering are detected and avoided.

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