Gene-edited pigs show resistance to classical swine fever

The team sees gene editing as part of a broader strategy, complementing vaccines and biosecurity measures to protect farm animals.

Targeting a key protein

Before editing live animals, researchers studied pestiviruses, including CSF, in cultured pig cells. They focused on a protein called DNAJC14.

• ✅ DNAJC14 plays a key role in virus replication.
• ✅ Altering the gene that produces DNAJC14 blocked viral reproduction in lab cells.
• ✅ This suggested that editing the same gene in pigs could prevent infections.

Successful live trials

Researchers made a precise change to the DNAJC14 gene in pig embryos, which were then implanted into surrogate mothers.

Once the pigs matured, they were exposed to CSF. Edited pigs remained healthy, while unedited pigs showed typical signs of the disease.

The trial confirmed that the genetic edit provided full protection without  harming the animals.

Broader implications for livestock

CSF continue to cause outbreaks in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and Europe. These outbreaks lead to trade bans and financial losses.

Other pestiviruses affect cattle (bovine viral diarrhea) and sheep (border . While vaccines exist, controlling spread remains difficult due to virus persistence and cross-species transmission.

Researchers believe the same genetic edit could be applied to other livestock, offering wider protection.