Human Genes Introduced Into Dairy Cows

Brace yourself: scientists have created some freakish genetically-modified human-cow amalgams to produce cow’s milk with the properties of human breast milk. According to the Telegraph, the scientists used cloning technology to introduce human genes into Holstein cows then implanted surrogate cows with the genetically-modified embryos. I’m not sure even Mary Shelley could have thought this one up.

The scientists believe the cows will produce milk with a human protein called lysozyme. Extensive recent research has already called into question the safety of genetically-modified (GM) foods, but this is a far cry from GM corn, canola, and other seeds. We’re talking living animals here. Does anyone else see the potentially serious effects of unleashing the work of egomaniacal scientists on the world in the form of human-cow prototypes? This human-cow milk gives new meaning to the term “fusion cuisine.”

Joking aside, exactly how safe is this for either the cattle or the humans who consume the milk? No one really knows for sure right now since this research is in its infancy. And, I hope that’s where it ends.

What do you think about the cows sporting human genes? I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Subscribe to my free e-newsletter World’s Healthiest News for more cutting-edge health news, tips, and recipes.

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Kate H.

3:17PM PST on Feb 14, 2012

Such a weird, scary thought...

send a green star

Michael C.

6:22PM PST on Feb 12, 2012

Disgusting!

Sandi C.

9:30AM PST on Feb 11, 2012

WHY!

Zuzana K.

4:50AM PST on Feb 11, 2012

What the??? Thanks for the article. Well apart from concerns if it safe for the cows (I as vegetarian drink soy milk) - I sincerely hope that the fact that cows can have human DNA realize the folly of speciesm and reconsider slaughtering and eating them (if sadly this is not yet realized by soceity, surely the fact they are now actually gentically fused should be a wake up call!)

naomi c.

8:54PM PST on Feb 10, 2012

this is so unnatural, it is ridiculous. i don't drink milk from an animal. the milk is meant for the animal's babies. but, this fiddling around with nature is sickening.

Joan M.

2:13PM PST on Feb 9, 2012

Why can't scientists leave well alone, and concentrate instead of finding cures to all the killer diseases out there.

GA C.

10:40AM PST on Feb 9, 2012

Nature put a trace amount of Lysozyme in cows milk for a reason. Increasing this only changes what nature intended, and changing nature has the potential of doing who knows what down the line. Let's say there is no danger to humans, what about the cow? What happens to her calf? Can the calf ingest and process this and survive? Oh wait, they already do away with the calf to keep the cow lactating for $$. Are they really that interested in the humanity part of this GMO process, or will it be another source of $$ for them?

Latonya W.

3:44PM PST on Feb 8, 2012

Unbelievable but believable and this is why when I meet guys and they eat meat do dairy etc I say Im not a vegetarian from hell(thats what they like to call us and crazy cat lady for helping stray cats) I just smile date them tell them the effects and if they continue I let them know straight up when and when is coming u get sick from all u eat Im out the door(thats if I stick around long enough its hard dating a carnivore) I refuse to take care of someone who puts bad stuff in their body......and I wouldnt expect anyone to take care of me if its self destruction:)

Andy O.

12:07PM PST on Feb 7, 2012

paula e.

1:19AM PST on Feb 7, 2012

Disgusting. Wake up people milk is bad for you. Antibiotics, growth hormones and now human genes. The dairy industry is based on cruelty and frankensteinian science.