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The proposed trial involves four GMOs that have each been modified by introducing one of two pig genes under the control of one of two promoters. The pig genes produce different proteins, known as interferon gamma (IFN-ƒ×) and interleukin 5 (IL-5), that play roles in regulating the immune system of pigs. Inoculation with the GM viruses is expected to stimulate the immune response of pigs and make them less susceptible to infections.
Pigs raised in commercial production facilities are exposed to a range of organisms that may cause low grade infections that adversely affect their general health and production. To counteract this, antibiotics may be added to the pig feed. If the research is successful, the inoculation of pigs with the modified virus may provide an alternative to the use of antibiotics in commercial pig meat production.
Imugene proposes to carry out the trials in secure facilities at up to three locations in Victoria. The proposed PC1 animal containment measures include a lockable shed to prevent the escape of the pigs and/or access by other animals. Dissemination of the GM virus would be limited due to its inability to infect organisms other than pigs; by its limited ability to survive in the environment outside its natural host; and the trial sites¡¦ remoteness from other pig rearing facilities or feral pig populations.
During the trial period, from the time of issuing of the licence until December 2006, up to 200 pigs will be inoculated, via intranasal or oral routes or by subcutaneous injection, with one or more of the GM viruses. None of the pigs from the trial, or their by-products, would be used for animal feed or human food. Following each trial, inoculated pigs will be euthanased and all animal material disposed of under strict conditions that would destroy the GMOs.
The aim of the proposed trial is to evaluate the performance of the GM viruses in post-weaning pigs, using a range of indicators such as pig health, weight gain, feed conversion rate and meat quality. The trials will also allow additional research on the potential of the virus to spread from one pig to another within the secure facilities.