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ARS Home » Midwest Area » Columbia, Missouri » Plant Genetics Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #406990
Research Project: Validate Causative Mutations in Agriculturally-Important Vertebrates

Location: Plant Genetics Research

Title: Accelerating genomic improvement in pigs by using reproductive biotechnologies

Author
item Redel, Bethany
item TELUGU, BHANU - University Of Missouri
item LUCAS, CAROLINE - University Of Missouri
item Chen, Paula
item LEE, KIHO - University Of Missouri
item WHITWORTH, KRISTIN - University Of Missouri
item PRATHER, RANDALL - University Of Missouri

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 7/18/2024
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: Not required for book chapter.

Technical Abstract: The world population is rapidly increasing and is expected to reach 8.5 billion in 10 years. To meet the food demand of the growing population, there is a critical need to increase the amount of protein produced from animals. Pork is the second largest contributor of global meat consumption [1]. Identifying ways to increase the efficiency of pig and livestock production is pivotal to meeting the United States and global demand for nutrients, maintain global competitiveness, and resilient supply chains. Traditionally, producers use a selective breeding approach to improve herd genetics, but this approach comes with limitations including low heritability of traits, longer time required to introgress traits, and the need for the beneficial traits to exist in the population. The use of genome editing technology can overcome these bottlenecks, accelerate genetic improvements, and provide solutions to pressing animal welfare concerns, maximizing nutrient yield, reducing the use of resources, and utilizing alternative feedstuffs. The technology has revolutionized our ability to rapidly incorporate multiple genetic traits into a line of livestock species such as pigs or introduce novel traits. This review highlights the methods for generating genetically engineered pigs beginning with the production of pig embryos in vitro and ending with techniques for performing the genetic modifications. Examples of genetic modifications that have already been made to benefit production agriculture are highlighted.