Scientists breed glow-in-the-dark rabbits
Two "glow-in-the-dark" rabbits have been bred by scientists in Hawaii and Turkey, by injecting jellyfish DNA into the mother rabbit's embryo.
Using a method developed by medical researchers at the University of Hawaii Mānoa, a fluorescent protein in jellyfish DNA was injected into the embryo, which was then re-inserted into the mother rabbit.
A litter of eight was born at the University of Istanbul, two of which carried the "glowing gene". By day, the rabbits look the same as their furry white siblings, but they become a vivid glowing green in colour when exposed to black light.
Scientists aimed to prove that genetic manipulation works effectively in rabbits using the University of Hawaii's technique.
Longterm, the aim is to introduce a beneficial gene into female rabbits and collect the protein made in their milk. It is hoped that this approach will lead to new ways of producing medicines.
The Hawaii research team has also collaborated with scientists in Turkey on producing transgenic sheep and the first lamb is expected to be born in Turkey this November.
Click here to view video footage of the glowing rabbits.
With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.
