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ARS Home » Plains Area » Clay Center, Nebraska » U.S. Meat Animal Research Center » Livestock Bio-Systems » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #155062
Title: AN OVERVIEW OF GENOMICS RESEARCH AND ITS IMPACT ON LIVESTOCK REPRODUCTION

Author
item Rohrer, Gary

Submitted to: Reproduction, Fertility and Development
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/1/2004
Publication Date: 1/1/2004
Citation: ROHRER, G.A. AN OVERVIEW OF GENOMICS RESEARCH AND ITS IMPACT ON LIVESTOCK REPRODUCTION. REPRODUCTION, FERTILITY AND DEVELOPMENT. 16:47-54. 2004.

Interpretive Summary: The tools and information developed from genomic research in livestock have changed the way research is conducted in virtually all biological disciplines. A few examples of how this information has been used are presented. The most effective improvement of livestock through marker-assisted selection or manipulation of the genome, is in conjunction with artificial insemination or embryo transfer. With increased accuracy of an animal's predicted genetic potential from marker data, the financial risk of obtaining animals with true genetic superiority will be reduced. The application of state of the art biotechnologies in livestock production should ensure the availability of high quality animal protein for the increasing human population.

Technical Abstract: The amount of information currently available about the genomes of many livestock species, especially cattle and pigs, has dramatically increased in the last few years and the rate of its accumulation will continue to increase. A large number of useful scientific "tools" are currently available to use in research aimed at understanding biological processes important to livestock production. These resources are being used to understand the biological processes regulating reproduction, body composition and immune function in all livestock species. This research will create many opportunities to use these tools for improvement of livestock production. The best commercial application of these tools is in conjunction with reproductive enhancing technologies such as artificial insemination, embryo transfer and cloning.