Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) has challenged pork producers for decades, impacting all stages of production and remaining one of the most costly diseases facing the global swine industry. While biosecurity, vaccination, and management strategies remain essential, a new option is drawing increasing attention: the PRRS-resistant pig.
According to John Harding, professor of large animal clinical sciences at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, gene-editing technology has created pigs that are not susceptible to PRRS infection.
How PRRS Resistance Works
The PRRS-resistant pig was developed by altering the cellular receptor the virus uses to infect and replicate within the animal. By modifying this receptor, the virus can no longer bind to the cell, effectively preventing infection.
“The key advantage is simple,” Harding explains. “These pigs cannot become infected with PRRS.”
While the science behind the technology is complex, the outcome is straightforward: pigs that are biologically resistant to a disease that has historically been extremely difficult to control.
Biosecurity Still Comes First
Despite the promise of PRRS-resistant genetics, Harding emphasizes that biosecurity remains the first and most critical line of defense, not only for PRRS but for all swine diseases.
PRRS can be transmitted through multiple routes — pig-to-pig contact, equipment, water systems, transportation, and even airborne spread — making layered protection essential regardless of genetic advances.
Adoption Comes with Considerations
Harding notes that while the science supporting PRRS-resistant pigs is sound, adoption decisions will vary by operation.
“Whether we support the technology or not is something each producer and company will need to decide,” he says. “The science is strong, but public perception, regulatory approval, and market acceptance — both domestic and international — must all be considered.”
These factors may influence how quickly the technology is adopted across North America and global export markets.
Looking Ahead
As PRRS continues to evolve and pressure herd health and productivity, PRRS-resistant pigs represent a potential shift in how the industry approaches disease control — not as a replacement for biosecurity, but as an additional tool in a broader health strategy.
Producers interested in learning more about the development and science behind PRRS-resistant pigs can explore ongoing research and resources at prrsresistantpig.com.
