International Journal of Molecular Veterinary Research 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 9-16 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmvr 11 and proportions of fatty acids directly affect the taste, texture, and nutritional value of dairy products (Figure 1) (Chen et al., 2004). For example, the content of unsaturated fatty acids can affect the taste of butter, while the content of saturated fatty acids can influence the texture and meltability of cheese. By regulating milk fat synthesis genes, a more precise fatty acid composition can be achieved to meet the quality standards of different types of dairy products and consumer preferences. Figure 1 Dairy products Improvements in milk fat synthesis genes also help increase the stability of milk fat, reducing oxidation and quality deterioration. This is crucial for extending the shelf life of dairy products and reducing food waste. By reducing oxidative reactions, milk fat can maintain a fresher and more stable state for a longer period, ensuring high quality during the distribution and sales of dairy products. The functions of dairy cow milk fat synthesis genes have a direct impact on the quality and quantity of dairy products, which is of great significance to agriculture and the food industry. Further research into gene editing and related technologies can better meet the growing market demand, providing higher quality and more diverse dairy products while ensuring the sustainability and economic benefits of food production. 1.3 Limitations of existing research Despite the widely recognized importance of dairy cow milk fat synthesis genes, there are still some limitations in current research aimed at improving these genes. Although CRISPR-Cas9 technology has achieved some success in dairy cow gene editing, there are still technical challenges. While CRISPR-Cas9 technology is highly accurate in targeted gene editing, its editing efficiency may not be sufficient for the needs of agricultural production when applied on a large scale. Improving gene editing technology to enhance editing efficiency remains an urgent task to ensure the desired gene changes in dairy cows. Precision is also a concern. In the CRISPR-Cas9 editing process, non-specific gene mutations or unexpected side effects may occur, posing potential risks to the health and productivity of dairy cows. Therefore, ensuring the accuracy and safety of editing is crucial. The issues of time and cost in gene editing also need to be considered. The high cost and cumbersome operating procedures may limit the feasibility of large-scale gene editing, especially for small dairy farms. The genetic diversity of the dairy cow population is crucial for maintaining the long-term stability and adaptability of the population. However, gene-edited cows may lead to a reduction in genetic diversity. Introducing specific gene edits may cause certain genotypes of cows to proliferate widely in the population, reducing genetic diversity. This could make cows more vulnerable to future environmental changes and disease pressures, as reduced genetic
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