Scientists decode DNA of pig, a research favorite

© 2009 The Associated Press

Nov. 2, 2009, 5:30AM

CHICAGO — An international group of scientists has decoded the DNA of the domestic pig.

Experts say it’s research that may one day prove useful in finding new treatments for pigs and people — and maybe for a new swine flu vaccine for pigs.

Larry Schook is a University of Illinois in Champaign biomedical science professor who led the DNA sequencing project.

Schook says the pig is the ideal animal to look at lifestyle and health issues in the U.S.

Researchers announced results today at a meeting at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute in Hinxton, United Kingdom.

Dr. Richard Gibbs, a Baylor College of Medicine researcher who wasn’t involved in the genome project, says a lot of work remains before a vaccine for the animals could be available.

Gibbs says immune machinery is the most difficult to decipher — but this is a big step in that direction.

DNAWellnessinfo.com Resource:  http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/tx/6698379.html