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Scientists breed glow-in-the-dark rabbits
Jellyfish DNA injected into mother rabbit's embryo

Two "glow-in-the-dark" rabbits have been bred by scientists in Hawaii and Turkey, by injecting jellyfish DNA into the mother rabbit's embryo.

Using a method developed by medical researchers at the University of Hawaii Mānoa, a fluorescent protein in jellyfish DNA was injected into the embryo, which was then re-inserted into the mother rabbit.

A litter of eight was born at the University of Istanbul, two of which carried the "glowing gene". By day, the rabbits look the same as their furry white siblings, but they become a vivid glowing green in colour when exposed to black light.

Scientists aimed to prove that genetic manipulation works effectively in rabbits using the University of Hawaii's technique.

Longterm, the aim is to introduce a beneficial gene into female rabbits and collect the protein made in their milk. It is hoped that this approach will lead to new ways of producing medicines.

The Hawaii research team has also collaborated with scientists in Turkey on producing transgenic sheep and the first lamb is expected to be born in Turkey this November.

Click here to view video footage of the glowing rabbits.

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Equine Disease Surveillance report released for Q4 2025

News Story 1
 The latest Equine Disease Surveillance report has been released, with details on equine disease from Q4 of 2025.

The report, produced by Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, includes advice on rule changes for equine influenza vaccination.

Statistics and maps detail recent outbreaks of equine herpes virus, equine influenza, equine strangles and equine grass sickness. A series of laboratory reports provides data on virology, bacteriology, parasitology and toxicosis.

This issue also features a case study of orthoflavivus-associated neurological disease in a horse in the UK. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
NSA webinar explores sheep tailing and castration

The National Sheep Association (NSA) is to host a free webinar on the castration and tail docking of lambs.

The webinar, 'Understanding the tailing and castration consultation: A guide for sheep farmers', will be hosted online on Monday, 2 March 2026 at 7.30pm.

It comes during a government consultation into the methods used for these procedures. Farmers are encouraged to engage before the consultation period closes on Monday, 9 March 2026.

The webinar offers clear and actionable guidance to support farmers to contribute meaningfully to the consultation and prepare for potential changes.

On the panel will be former SVS president Kate Hovers, farmer and vet Ann Van Eetvelt and SRUC professor in Animal Health and Veterinary Sciences Cathy Dwyer. Each panel member will utilise their own specialism and expertise to evaluate risks and outcomes to sheep farming.

Find out more about the webinar on the NSA website.