Messing with Doggy DNA

A recent article in the New York Times explored developments in DNA screening and manipulation (à la Gattaca) for dogs! It started with some mutant muscly whippets. Scientists were able to map out the DNA, find the mutant gene, and eliminate it to lose the muscle and keep the speed.

With a completed genome of a boxer, scientists are looking to map out more dog DNA and develop tests to find out which trait a dog possesses. Using this information, breeders can pick and choose which are their best dogs to mate and have "perfect" offspring. This is incredible and crazy! But let's remember, there's more to a dog than "perfect" DNA. And watch Gattaca if you haven't seen it! Ethan Hawke! Jude Law!