Question

Explain the beneficial role of the following, produced as a result of the processes of biotechnology, to mankind:
Cow named Rosie

Hint:

Include a relevant concept, shortcut, or useful trick related to solving this type of problem. Give useful quick tips for the question. Also properly format the text in quick tip as per latex.
\textbf{Quick Tip (a):} Remember Rosie the cow as a key example of a transgenic animal producing a human protein in her milk, highlighting the potential for improved nutrition through biotechnology.
\textbf{Quick Tip (b):} Associate (\(\alpha\))-1-antitrypsin deficiency with lung disease (emphysema) and liver problems, and understand that the biotechnologically produced protein serves to replace the deficient or non-functional endogenous protein, protecting the lungs.

Answer 1

The cow named Rosie was the first transgenic cow to produce human protein-enriched milk. This was achieved through genetic engineering, where the gene encoding the human alpha-lactalbumin protein was introduced into Rosie’s genome. As a result, Rosie’s milk contained the human alpha-lactalbumin protein at a concentration of about 2.4 grams per liter. The beneficial role of Rosie’s milk to mankind is significant, particularly for human infants. Human milk is nutritionally superior to natural cow milk for human babies, and alpha-lactalbumin is a major protein in human milk. Milk enriched with human alpha-lactalbumin is more nutritionally balanced for human infants and is closer in composition to natural human breast milk. This can lead to: Improved nutritional value: Providing essential amino acids and a more balanced protein profile for infant growth and development. Enhanced digestibility: Making the milk easier for infants to digest compared to regular cow milk. Potential health benefits: Alpha-lactalbumin has also been shown to have some prebiotic properties and may play a role in infant gut health. Rosie’s creation demonstrated the potential of transgenic animals to produce biologically important human proteins, paving the way for the development of other transgenic animals for pharmaceutical production (molecular farming) and improved food quality. Correct Answer : Cow Rosie was the first transgenic cow to produce milk enriched with human alpha-lactalbumin protein. This milk is more nutritionally balanced and easier to digest for human infants, bringing it closer in composition to natural human breast milk and offering potential health benefits.