Our center, with the support of its administration and as part of its ongoing scientific activities, held a workshop on “Genetically Engineered Animals” on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. Organized by the workshop and seminar committee and moderated by Assistant Lecturer Ali Kamel Wanas, the session was presented by Assistant Lecturer Maryam Majed from the Department of Vertebrates. The workshop traced the history of genetic engineering, noting the creation of the first genetically modified animals in the 1970s and 80s, highlighting their value as models for human diseases. It also addressed the ethical and practical concerns surrounding genetic modification, such as safety and the potential for irreversible harm to animals and the environment. The GloFish, a fluorescent danio fish, was cited as the first commercially available genetically modified animal, launched in the US in 2003. The AquAdvantage salmon, approved for food use in 2015, was also mentioned. The lecture aimed to: 1) Obtain foods with higher nutritional value; 2) Improve food taste and appearance; 3) Produce crops requiring fewer resources (e.g., irrigation, pesticides), thus saving resources and reducing costs; and 4) Produce fast-growing strains. The presenter recommended utilizing genetic engineering for animal classification and improving the genetic characteristics of commonly consumed animals. We wish our center’s teachers continued success in serving the community, science, and knowledge.
