Science Speaks - Blog by ISAAA

ISAAA Inc. and UC Davis Launch Gene-Edited Animal Database

By Janine Cyren Escasura and Eric John Azucena
September 4, 2024

In the digital age, the integration of technology with scientific inquiry and agricultural practices has transformed how people use and manage data and information. The rise of databases serves as a vital tool for experts and the general public to access information about various agricultural innovations.

On August 29, 2024, Mr. Eric John Azucena, Senior Information Management Specialist at ISAAA Inc., presented the Gene-Edited Animal Database (GEAD) during the 5th International Workshop on Regulatory Approaches for Agricultural Applications of Animal Biotechnologies held on August 19 - 29, 2024. This database is the latest addition to ISAAA’s knowledge resources.

GEAD compiles detailed information about animals developed through gene editing for agricultural applications based on the scientific report titled New Genomic Techniques (NGT) in animals and their agri/food/feed products by Van Eenennaam (2023). This database is managed by ISAAA Inc. in collaboration with the University of California - Davis (UC Davis).

Gene-edited products are not often subject to regulatory approvals. Commonly, these products go through a regulatory process to obtain a determination as to whether they are or are not genetically modified organisms (GMOs). As of September 2024, GEAD presents 16 entries of gene-edited animals that have undergone the regulatory process and 192 entries that did not go through the regulatory process. The regulatory documents are included in the database based on publicly available English (or translatable) decision documents of each approving country.

Here are some of the key features of GEAD:

  • User-friendly interface. GEAD has a responsive web design for ease of access and navigation across different devices and screen sizes that can be viewed on the ISAAA website using a phone, tablet, or laptop.
  • Search Engine Optimization (SEO)-enhanced content. This feature ensures that the database's content is designed to rank higher in search engine results, making it easier for users to find relevant information about gene-edited animals. This includes strategic use of keyword prominence and proximity, keyword links, accordion navigation, and breadcrumbs, among others.
  • Advanced search and filtering options. This feature allows users to narrow down the database entries based on specific criteria, such as species, country, trait category, target gene, NGT used, SDN type, institute or developer, editing method, year, and foreign DNA, if present.
  • Comprehensive data collection. The information on the database is sourced from a scientific report and regulatory documents, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the database.

Databases emerged as a valuable resource for navigating regulatory compliance and driving further research and development. As technologies evolve, databases such as GEAD will become even more integral in providing comprehensive records and data, bringing current breakthroughs and opportunities to light.

Visit the ISAAA Gene-Edited Animal Database to explore its features and functions. For more updates, subscribe to Biotech Updates.

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