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Gene-Edited Dogs Free from Allergies Offer New Hope for Pet Owners
A biotech startup has developed gene-edited beagles that lack the protein causing dog allergies, offering a potential breakthrough for allergy sufferers. Scientists at Kindred Companion Sciences used CRISPR to remove the Can f1 gene, which produces the primary allergen in dog dander, hair, and saliva. The edited puppies, Bailey and Alfie, show no detectable levels of the allergen, passing rigorous tests including skin prick trials and protein level measurements. Founder Matt Walker, who suffers from allergies, has lived with one of the dogs for over a year without reactions. This marks the first successful application of gene editing to create hypoallergenic pets, following earlier efforts with cats. The research highlights the potential of genetic modification to address health issues while preserving breed characteristics. While challenges remain in commercialization and ethical considerations, the study represents a significant step in personalized pet care solutions.