Gene Editing in Livestock: What, Why, and What’s Next? with Dr. Gus McFarlane

About this episode

This episode explores the science and implications of gene editing in livestock, focusing on CRISPR technology and its potential impact on animal production.

Join us for another thought-provoking episode of "Genetics in the Paddock with Emily", as we unpack the science, promise, and challenges of gene editing in livestock—with a special focus on CRISPR technology. In this episode, Emily is joined by Gus McFarlane, a Research Scientist from NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, passionate about welfare-driven and climate-adaptive breeding with the help of gene editing technologies. Together, they explore how CRISPR is changing the conversation in cattle and sheep production—from improving thermotolerance and disease resistance to reducing mulesing and adapting European breeds to Australian conditions. We break down how gene editing works (in practical, paddock-relevant terms), how it differs from GMOs, and why it's attracting renewed global attention. Gus shares current and future examples—from slick-coated cattle to gene-edited salmon—and explains why Australia may see commercial gene-edited livestock within the next five years. We also tackle the big questions: 🔬 What are the risks of misuse or misunderstanding? 💡 Will gene editing replace EBVs and selection indexes—or complement them? ⚖️ What regulations…

People in this episode

Host: Emily Johnston

Guest: Dr. Gus McFarlane

Topics covered

• gene editing
• livestock
• CRISPR technology
• animal welfare
• climate adaptation
• agriculture

Keywords

• gene editing
• livestock genetics
• CRISPR
• animal welfare
• disease resistance
• thermotolerance
• agriculture
• commercialization

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

Products: CRISPR

Places: Australia, European

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