Gene-Edited Beagles Could Pave the Way to Hypoallergenic Dogs

At Kindred Companion Sciences, researchers have developed Alfie and Bailey, the first genetically edited dogs designed to remove the allergy-causing protein Can f 1. Utilizing the Nobel Prize-winning CRISPR method, the team disabled the gene linked to this protein. Born in September 2024, these dogs exhibit no Can f 1 in their saliva or dander, and skin-prick tests conducted on CEO Matt Walker, who has had allergies for life, showed no allergic responses. The findings were published in the CRISPR Journal on August 5. Although the company plans to breed these hypoallergenic animals, they are not yet available for sale as the FDA has not approved the gene modification, and other allergens like Can f 2 remain. While experts are excited, they also raise ethical questions, noting parallels to conventional breeding. The success could lead to increased pet ownership, but might deter stray adoptions. The team is diligently observing the dogs' health.