MYLENE R.

GAETOS 12-STEM4(VEGA)

MICHAELA LLONA

“Silk Spinning Goat”

SUMMARY:

Researchers from the University of Wyoming have developed a method to give goats the silk-spinning
genes of spiders, allowing the researchers to harvest the silk protein found in goat milk, which has
several uses. For instance, due to its strength and elasticity, spider silk fiber could have several medical
uses, such as for making artificial ligaments and tendons, for eye sutures, and for jaw repair. The silk
could also have applications in bulletproof vests and improved car airbags.

By harnessing goats as silk protein factories, the researchers anticipate significantly higher yields
compared to traditional spider farming methods. They also plan to extend this technology to alfalfa
plants for even greater production potential.

In 2012, scientists at the University of Wyoming engineered goats to produce a protein in spider silk in
their milk. Silk is useful for a variety of applications in materials science and medicine, and it's hard to get
spiders to make enough of it.

In the future, the scientists plan to incorporate the silk genes into alfalfa plants, which they say could
produce even larger quantities of silk. They explain that not only is alfalfa widely distributed, it also has a
high (20-25%) protein content, making it an ideal crop to produce silk protein.

Source: https://phys.org/news/2010-05-scientists-goats-spider-silk.amp

REFLECTION:

These genetically modified organisms (GMOs) offer an intriguing example of how material science and
biotechnology might come together. The resulting transgenic goats provide a potentially scalable and
sustainable alternative to the scarce supply of spider silk, a substance highly prized for its elasticity and
strength. This product is important since it may be used in many different fields, especially materials
engineering and medical. The use of spider silk in the creation of biocompatible surgical materials and
implants could progress medicine and possibly improve patient outcomes. Furthermore, adding spider
silk to safety equipment like airbags in cars and bulletproof jackets could improve standards and save
lives. However, the production and usage of GMOs raise ethical questions, particularly when animal
experimentation is involved. Careful thought must be given to issues pertaining to animal welfare, the
environment, and long-term effects on ecosystems. Even though the transgenic goats' health and
behavior appear to be the same as those of their non-modified counterparts, continuous observation
and evaluation of any possible unexpected effects are crucial. In terms of ethical issues, GMOs have
hazards and ethical dilemmas that need to be balanced against their advantages. Although the use of
transgenic goats to produce spider silk offers great potential, its research and application should be
guided by strong legal frameworks and moral principles. Stakeholder involvement, accountability, and
transparency are essential for resolving issues and optimizing the advantages of this cutting-edge
technology while lowering risks. Ultimately, navigating the ethical terrain of GMOs, like these silky
spinning goats, requires a balanced strategy that takes into account both the possible benefits and
ethical consequences.