Gene transfer: potential to enhance the genome of Atlantic salmon for aquaculture
G. L. Fletcher A B C , M. A. Shears A , E. S. Yaskowiak A , M. J. King A and S. V. Goddard BA Ocean Sciences Centre, Memorial University, St John’s, NL, A1C 5S7, Canada.
B Aqua Bounty Canada, PO Box 21233, St John’s, NL, A1A 5B2, Canada.
C Corresponding author. Email: gfletcher@aquabounty.com
Australian Journal of Experimental Agriculture 44(11) 1095-1100 https://doi.org/10.1071/EA03223
Submitted: 6 November 2003 Accepted: 8 October 2004 Published: 14 December 2004
Abstract
Over the past 20 years we have generated stable lines of transgenic Atlantic salmon possessing either antifreeze protein (AFP) genes or a salmon growth hormone (GH) gene construct. The AFP gene transfer studies were initiated in 1982. The AFP transgene integrated into salmon genomic DNA and AFP has been found in the blood of all 5 generations to date. However, AFP levels are low and a means to raise these levels needs to be developed. Our GH gene transfer studies were initiated in 1989. Evidence to date indicates that a single copy of the GH transgene integrated into chromosomal DNA and has been passed down in Mendelian fashion, along with its rapid growth phenotype, over 6 generations. Laboratory studies indicate that our GH transgene enhances growth rates with Atlantic salmon reaching market size (4–6 kg) a year earlier than non-transgenics cultured commercially in Atlantic Canada.
This GH gene transfer technology was patented and licensed to Aqua Bounty Farms Inc., and the transgenic salmon are currently under review by various government regulatory authorities in the USA and Canada for use in commercial aquaculture ventures. Our experience with the regulatory authorities, the industry and the press indicates that the successful introduction of transgenic salmon into the aquaculture industry involves issues concerning not only science but also food safety, environmental safety, animal welfare and consumer acceptance. This communication centres on our experience with Atlantic salmon and outlines our plans and progress towards demonstrating the safety of transgenic fish to the consumer and to the environment.
Acknowledgments
The authors gratefully acknowledge NSERC, MRC, IRAP-NRC, ACOA, DFO, Aqua Bounty Canada and AquaNet, the Network of Centres of Excellence for Aquaculture for the funding of this research.
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