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Abstract
The production of genetically modified (GM) animals is an emerging
technique that could potentially impact the livestock and pharmaceutical industries.
Currently, food products derived from GM animals have not yet entered the market
whilst two pharmaceutical products have. The objective of this paper is twofold: first
it aims to explore the socio-economic drivers affecting the use of GM animals and,
second, to review the risks and benefits from the point of view of the life sciences. A
scoping study was conducted to assess research relevant to understanding the main
drivers influencing the adoption of GM applications and their potential risks and benefits.
Public and producers’ acceptance, public policies, human health, animal welfare,
environmental impact and sustainability are considered as the main factors affecting
the application of GM animal techniques in livestock and pharmaceutical chains.