Toolgen using gene editing technology announced on the 16th that it has signed a joint research contract with Lat Bio, a company specializing in gene editing animals, to develop a gene editing cow that can be used in xenotransplantation fields such as artificial blood. It utilizes Toolgens CRISPR gene scissors original technology and Latbios gene-edited animal development technology. Starting with the development of artificial blood using a gene-editing cow, the high value-added gene-edited animal development project will be promoted. The company is experiencing a blood shortage worldwide, and the transmission of diseases through blood transfusions is also a concern, the company said. The alternative blood market is growing at a rate of 20.5% every year, and is expected to reach 7 trillion won (US$6.2 billion) in 2022. Toolgen CEO Kim Young-ho said that Toolgen has built up technology by collaborating with leading domestic xenotransplantation companies such as Optipharm Genenbio through technology transfer and joint research, etc. In line with the commercialization support plan, he said he plans to promote the development of artificial blood using gene editing technology with Latbio. Latbio CEO Janggu said that Latbio signed a technology transfer agreement with Toolgen in 2021 and is developing various new breeds of cattle that can be used in the livestock sector. . Reporter Han Min-soo
