Investigatory Project on Transgenic Animals
Submitted by: A.R. Rithish
Class: XII-B
Roll No: 24
School: The Rajas International School
Submitted to: Thilaka
Session: 2025–2026
Acknowledgement
I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to my Biology teacher, Thilaka, for her valuable
guidance and support in the completion of this investigatory project on Transgenic Animals. I am
also thankful to my school, The Rajas International School, for providing me with the opportunity
and resources to carry out this study. Lastly, I thank my parents and friends for their constant
encouragement.
— A.R. Rithish
Certificate
This is to certify that A.R. Rithish, a student of Class XII-B, Roll No. 24, has successfully completed
the investigatory project titled “Transgenic Animals” under the guidance of Thilaka during the
academic session 2025–2026.
Signature of Teacher: ____________________
Signature of Principal: ____________________
Signature of Student: ____________________
Index
1. Introduction
2. Objectives
3. What are Transgenic Animals
4. Process of Creating Transgenic Animals
5. Techniques Used
6. Applications
7. Examples
8. Ethical Issues
9. Advantages and Disadvantages
10. Conclusion
11. Bibliography
Introduction
Modern biotechnology allows scientists to transfer genes from one organism to another to improve
traits, produce useful proteins, or study diseases. Such genetically modified organisms are known
as Transgenic Organisms, and when the organism is an animal, it is called a Transgenic Animal.
This project aims to understand the concept, creation, applications, and ethical concerns of
transgenic animals.
Objectives
1. To study what transgenic animals are and how they are produced.
2. To understand the biotechnological techniques used in gene transfer.
3. To explore the applications of transgenic animals in medicine, agriculture, and research.
4. To discuss the advantages and disadvantages of transgenic animal technology.
5. To evaluate ethical and environmental concerns associated with this field.
What are Transgenic Animals
A Transgenic Animal is one that carries a foreign gene deliberately inserted into its genome
through genetic engineering techniques. The introduced gene, called a transgene, can come from
another species or even from a different organism of the same species.
Examples:
- Mice with human genes for studying diseases.
- Goats that produce human proteins in their milk.
- Pigs engineered for organ transplantation research.
Process of Creating Transgenic Animals
1. Identification of Gene of Interest: Scientists first identify and isolate a specific gene
responsible for a useful trait.
2. Gene Cloning: The selected gene is cloned using vectors like plasmids.
3. Gene Insertion: The gene is inserted into the animal’s genome using techniques like
microinjection or viral vectors.
4. Selection and Breeding: Embryos that successfully integrate the foreign gene are implanted
into a surrogate mother.
5. Expression of Gene: The offspring that inherit the gene express the foreign protein or trait.
Techniques Used
1. Microinjection Method: Direct injection of DNA into the nucleus of a fertilized egg.
2. Embryonic Stem Cell Method: DNA inserted into stem cells, which are then implanted into
embryos.
3. Retroviral Vector Method: Modified viruses deliver genes into host genomes.
4. CRISPR-Cas9 Gene Editing: Modern precise technique for inserting or modifying genes.
Applications
1. Medicine: Production of therapeutic proteins like insulin, human growth hormone, and
antithrombin in goat’s milk.
2. Agriculture: Creation of animals with improved growth rate and disease resistance.
3. Research: Used as model organisms to study diseases.
4. Xenotransplantation: Pigs engineered for organ donation research.
Examples
1. Transgenic Mice: Used to study human genes and diseases.
2. Transgenic Goats: Produce human proteins in milk.
3. Transgenic Sheep (Polly): First sheep to produce human protein in milk.
4. Transgenic Fish (GloFish): Fluorescent fish used in research.
5. Transgenic Pigs: Used for organ transplantation research.
Ethical Issues
- Animal Welfare: Genetic modification may cause suffering.
- Biodiversity Threats: Risk of transgenes spreading.
- Moral Concerns: Debate about manipulating life.
- Regulations: Guidelines by CPCSEA and other agencies.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Production of useful proteins and medicines.
- Disease-resistant livestock.
- Research models for diseases.
- Faster animal growth.
Disadvantages:
- Ethical objections.
- Gene instability.
- High cost.
- Uncertain ecological effects.
Conclusion
Transgenic animals are powerful tools in biotechnology that have revolutionized medicine,
agriculture, and genetic research. While they hold immense potential, ethical and ecological
implications must be carefully considered. With responsible use and proper regulations, transgenic
technology can greatly contribute to human welfare and scientific progress.
Bibliography
1. NCERT Biology Class XII
2. Biotechnology — Principles and Processes (NCERT)
3. [Link]
4. [Link] — "Transgenic Animals"
5. Notes from Biology Practical Manual (CBSE)