World News for Students of English

03-09-2025 07:00

In Argentina, five foals have become the world’s first gene-edited horses, created by Kheiron Biotech using CRISPR technology.

Unlike cloning, which produces identical copies, CRISPR allows scientists to cut and change DNA. In this case, they reduced the myostatin gene, which normally limits muscle growth, to create horses with stronger muscles and faster speed. Supporters argue this could transform polo breeding.

However, the Argentine Polo Association has banned gene-edited horses from competition, saying they harm the tradition and magic of natural breeding. Many breeders worry about unfair advantages and possible economic risks if international buyers reject GE horses. Others compare the technology to artificial intelligence, claiming it reduces the role of human skill.

Despite controversy, Argentina has a history of adopting biotechnology, from cloning to embryo transfers. Experts believe that science will continue to advance, though for now, the future of gene-edited polo horses remains uncertain. Time will show whether they truly outperform naturally bred animals.

Difficult words: foal (a young horse), controversy (public disagreement), outperform (do better than someone or something).

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