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EmailIphone Application    Posted: 15th June 2016
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Gene drives: Life-saving, or dangerous?
dna
It has long been possible to modify DNA but, due to the rules of genetic inheritance, those modifications are unlikely to be passed down to any progeny.

New report says research should proceed with caution

A novel technique for altering genes in animals, plants and insects has the potential to save millions of lives, eradicating vector-borne diseases, wiping out harmful invasive species and protecting threatened or endangered species.

Predictably, there is a 'but'. The work raises serious concerns about the unintended consequences of releasing these modified organisms into the environment.

To read the full blog, log in to VetCommunity.com: http://vetcommunity.com/vs/gene-drives-life-saving-or-dangerous/

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Birmingham Dogs Home makes urgent appeal

News Story 1
 Birmingham Dogs Home has issued an urgent winter appeal as it faces more challenges over the Christmas period.

The rescue centre has seen a dramatic increase in dogs coming into its care, and is currently caring for over 200 dogs. With rising costs and dropping temperatures, the charity is calling for urgent support.

It costs the charity £6,000 per day to continue its work.

Fi Harrison, head of fundraising and communications, said: "It's heart-breaking for our team to see the conditions some dogs arrive in. We really are their last chance and hope of survival."

More information about the appeal can be found here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Avian flu confirmed at premises in Cornwall

A case of highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 has been detected in commercial poultry at a premises near Rosudgeon, Cornwall.

All poultry on the infected site will be humanely culled, and a 3km protection zone and 10km surveillance zone have been put in place. Poultry and other captive birds in the 3km protection zone must be housed.

The case is the second avian flu case confirmed in commercial poultry this month. The H5N5 strain was detected in a premises near Hornsea, East Riding of Yorkshire, in early November. Before then, the disease had not been confirmed in captive birds in England since February.

The UK chief veterinary officer has urged bird keepers to remain alert and practise robust biosecurity.

A map of the disease control zones can be found here.