Int. J. Dev. Biol. 62: 257 - 264 (2018)

https://doi.org/10.1387/ijdb.170323mm

Vol 62, Issue 1-2-3

Special Issue: The Chick Embryo Model System

Illuminating the chicken model through genetic modification

Published: 14 March 2018

Megan G. Davey*, Adam Balic, Joe Rainger, Helen M. Sang and Michael J. McGrew

Roslin Institute Chicken Embryology (RICE), The Roslin Institute and Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian, UK

Abstract

After decades of research investment, techniques for the robust and efficient modification of the chicken genome are now with us. The biology of the chicken has provided many challenges, as have the methods by which transgenes can be readily, stably and functionally integrated into the genome. Now that these obstacles have been surmounted and the chicken has been ‘updated’ to a cutting-edge modern model organism, a future as a central and versatile model in developmental biology beckons. In this review, we describe recent advances in genetic modification of the chicken and some of the many transgenic models developed for the elucidation of the mechanisms of embryogenesis.

Keywords

chicken, embryology, transgenic, genetic modification, gene editing, fluorescent proteins