Abstract

After more than 20 years of research, genomic technology is now on the cusp of widespread adoption in animal industries. Industry adoption will initially involve improvement of existing breeding and traceability systems. DNA variants, commonly called markers, used in these systems can provide 4 pieces of information: identity, parentage, prediction of an animals genetic worth and its individual performance. The usability of the technology and its adoption is increasing as genotyping prices decline. The major challenges are: to decrease sample collection, processing and reporting costs, and integrate the systems so that all 4 separate pieces of information can be obtained from a single test. Underpinning future research will be availability of sequenced genomes for each of the production species, and large scale “SNP chips” derived from them. Currently, the technology provides the ability to identify and map and use variants affecting animal performance in commercial populations. These technologies use existing natural genetic variation already present in the population. The potential of these technologies is safer and more nutritious food produced with less environmental impact and greater animal welfare due to lower level of disease.

JC, McEwan

Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production, Volume 67, Wanaka, 148-153, 2007