Why are transgenic mammals often used in biotechnology?

Transgenic mammals are particularly valuable in biotechnology because they can be engineered to produce large amounts of complex human proteins in their milk. This process involves inserting specific human genes into the genetic material of the mammals, which allows them to synthesize proteins that may be difficult to produce using traditional methods. The milk serves as a natural bioreactor, where these complex proteins are secreted and can be harvested relatively easily.

This capability is crucial for producing therapeutic proteins, enzymes, and antibodies that can be used in medical treatments, such as for diseases or conditions that require specific proteins that the human body might not produce in sufficient quantities. The use of mammalian systems for protein production is advantageous because the complex folding and modifications necessary for some proteins can be more efficiently achieved in mammals compared to simpler organisms.

This feature of transgenic mammals highlights their unique role in advancing biopharmaceutical development and biotechnology applications, making them a major asset in the field.