The Environmental Risk Management Authority (Erma) has granted AgResearch approval to continue working with genetically modified cells and animals.
The research, being conducted on goats, sheep and cattle, aims to develop specific proteins in milk which could be used to treat certain human diseases.
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“Erma said it considered the main benefit of the approved research would be an increase in scientific knowledge and the capacity for innovation in the country.
“The application was for research and development to completion for “proof-of-concept”, not field tests.
“The DNA constructs would be used in mice before being used to modify large animals such as cattle.
“”This is to confirm the consequences of the modification and to identify any potential animal welfare issues,” Erma said.”