Alba (rabbit)

Alba was a genetically modified rabbit created as part of an art project by Eduardo Kac, a contemporary artist known for his work in bio art. Alba was engineered to express a green fluorescent protein (GFP) that causes her to glow green under blue light. This project, known as GFP Bunny, was intended to spark discussions about the implications of genetic engineering and the relationship between art and science.

Background

The GFP Bunny project was conceived by Eduardo Kac in 2000. Kac collaborated with French geneticist Louis-Marie Houdebine to create Alba. The GFP gene, originally isolated from the jellyfish Aequorea victoria, was inserted into the rabbit's genome. This gene is commonly used in scientific research as a marker because it causes organisms to fluoresce under specific lighting conditions.

Creation and Controversy

Alba was born in 2000 in a laboratory in France. The project was controversial from the start, raising ethical questions about the manipulation of animal genomes for artistic purposes. Critics argued that the project was an unnecessary use of genetic engineering, while supporters claimed it was a legitimate form of artistic expression that highlighted important ethical issues.

Eduardo Kac intended to bring Alba to live with his family in Chicago, but the laboratory that created her refused to release her, citing concerns about her welfare and the potential public reaction. This led to further debate about the rights of genetically modified organisms and the responsibilities of scientists and artists.

Scientific Implications

The use of GFP in Alba was not novel in scientific terms, as GFP had been used in research for many years. However, the application of this technology in an art context was groundbreaking. The project highlighted the potential for genetic engineering to cross disciplinary boundaries and enter the realm of public discourse.

Ethical Considerations

The GFP Bunny project raised several ethical questions:

• Is it ethical to genetically modify animals for non-scientific purposes?
• What are the responsibilities of artists and scientists in the creation of GMOs?
• How should society regulate the use of genetic engineering in art?

These questions remain relevant as genetic engineering technology continues to advance.

Legacy

Alba lived for two years and passed away in 2002. Despite her short life, she left a lasting impact on the fields of art and science. The GFP Bunny project is often cited in discussions about bioethics and the intersection of art and technology.

Also see

• Genetically modified organism
• Green fluorescent protein
• Bio art
• Eduardo Kac
• Ethics of genetic engineering