Genetically modified chickens can lay eggs that contain an important immune-boosting human protein.

Researchers at Scotland’s University of Edinburgh Roslin Institute have developed a more efficient means of creating transgenic chickens. The egg whites produced by these hens, which contain the protein interferon alpha 2 (IFNA2), are collected and refined into a medical therapy – with only three eggs needed to produce a clinically relevant dose.

The scientists hope this new approach to raising and caring for transgenic chickens could one day be an effective, affordable option for producing many life-saving compounds, especially when compared with current methods.

Click here to read more about the transgenic chickens developed at the University of Edinburgh.