Gene-Edited PRRS-Resistant Pigs Get US FDA Approval

Genus announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the gene-edited porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS)-resistant pig (PRP) for use in the U.S. food supply chain, in line with expectations.

This landmark approval follows years of close collaboration of Genus with the FDA and is a significant step on the pathway to PRP commercialization in the U.S.. Genus continues to make progress with regulators in key U.S. export markets, including Mexico, Canada and Japan, as well as with other international regulators, including China. Brazil, Colombia and, more recently, the Dominican Republic have already issued positive determinations for PRP, meaning those countries will regulate the PRP the same as any other pigs.

One of the most devastating global pig diseases, PRRS causes suffering and premature death for pigs. A 2023 Iowa State University study indicates that PRRS also increases the need for antibiotics by more than 200%.

For more details, read the news release from Genus.