Applications of Gene Editing in Chickens: A New Era Is on the Horizon

Abstract

The chicken represents a valuable model for research in the area of immunology, infectious diseases as well as developmental biology. Although it was the first livestock species to have its genome sequenced, there was no reverse genetic technology available to help understanding specific gene functions. Recently, homologous recombination was used to knockout the chicken immunoglobulin genes. Subsequent studies using immunoglobulin knockout birds helped to understand different aspects related to B cell development and antibody production. Furthermore, the latest advances in the field of genome editing including the CRISPR/Cas9 system allowed the introduction of site specific gene modifications in various animal species. Thus, it may provide a powerful tool for the generation of genetically modified chickens carrying resistance for certain pathogens. This was previously demonstrated by targeting the Trp38 region which was shown to be effective in the control of avian leukosis virus in chicken DF-1 cells. Herein we review the current and future prospects of gene editing and how it possibly contributes to the development of resistant chickens against infectious diseases.

Marek’s Disease Virus Infection of Natural Killer Cells

“…Furthermore, our in vitro data demonstrate enhanced NK cell degranulation and release of IFNγ, which could be part of their antiviral response to MDV infections. Future studies will address the role of NK cells in MDV infection in vivo using NK cell knockout chickens that are hopefully available in the years to come [38].…”

IFNα and IFNγ Impede Marek’s Disease Progression

“…Beyond type I and II IFNs, the role of type III IFNs should be investigated in the context of MDV infection at mucosal surfaces. Finally, novel methodology in avian immunology and infectious diseases research such as genetically modified chickens [46] or the increasing availability of avian cell markers as well as in vitro and in vivo tools [47] will certainly improve our understanding of these processes in the near future.…”

Latest Insights into Marek’s Disease Virus Pathogenesis and Tumorigenesis

“…Finally, researchers should further investigate the genetic resistance of the host to MDV infections [106][107][108][109]. In addition to conventional breeding programs, novel technology, including CRISPR/Cas9 genomic editing, could be used to generate more resistant chickens [110].…”