Sus domesticus, often called swine or hog, or more commonly and simply, just “pig”, have been considered as a domestic animal that traces back to the Tigris Basin around 12,000 BC. In addition to its important role as a food source, this animal, when still in its young form (a piglet), bears a resemblance of extravagant cuteness that easily grasps the very heart of any pet lover. However, as farm breeders, scientists and animal rights proponents frequently point out, the chance of keeping a “teacup” porcine pet is minimal. Whilst there are several porcine strains, such as the miniature Potbellied pigs which are significantly smaller than their farm peers, they are still able to reach a 100-150 lb tag and, surely, not suitable for most of the family to be kept as pets. Indeed, in Southern California alone, there are already four regional shelters trying to get 150 abandoned oinkers homes, and all four shelters are now at their full capacity.
However, recent advancement in the field of biotechnology may shed some light (and equally bring in some thunderstorm) on those who desperately want to keep a porcine at home. In the beginning of October, BGI, a global biotech firm with its company headquarters based in Shenzhen, China and renowned for its outstanding research in the field of genetics and genomics, announced that it has the intention to market a special strain of miniature porcine that have been genetically engineered to prevent excessive body growth. One copy of the growth hormone receptor gene has been silenced in these animals to limit growth. It is claimed that such “micro-pigs” will only reach to 14-20 lb during their life span.
Although the story seems adorable, from a market view, we should always consider possible regulations, entry barriers, and strategies designed against such limiting factors. Actually, GM pets are not new: GloFish, a strain of transgenic fluorescent zebra fish, has been popular in US pet shops for quite a few years without causing any significant problem or public concern. However, larger animals may present different issue. On one hand, the miniature farm animals, such as porcine, ox, horse, and even llama, are subjected to the regulation of not only FDA, but also USDA since they are technically able to be slaughtered for human consumption. On the other hand, there are always significant concerns over interbreeding of escaped GM animals with their natural counterparts, and the outcome is very difficult to anticipate. Although such concerns can be easily eliminated to render all GM animals infertile using the same gene-editing techniques, the animal breeders may not agree with the idea that might severely restrict the market size.
In sum, the new era of GM pets provides us both opportunities and challenges. However, potential investors may like to hold for a few months to see how the BGI experiment goes. Yong Li, the animal platform lead in BGI, told Nature that any profits they collected from this miniature porcine project will be re-invested back into research. The options to potential customers are vary: not only the body size but also the possibility to add a few more options such as body color and pattern. Whether their marketing effort eventually flourishes or not, it would serve as a nice reference for any similar marketing plans and strategies in the future.
