Harnessing genomics and transcriptomics approaches to improve female fertility in beef cattle—A review

Authors: KERTZ, NICHOLAS - Auburn University; BANERJEE, PRIYANKA - Auburn University; DYCE, PAUL - Auburn University; DINIZ, WELLISON - Auburn University

Submitted to: Animals
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 10/19/2023
Publication Date: 10/21/2023
Citation: Kertz, N.C., Banerjee, P., Dyce, P.W., Diniz, W.J. 2023. Harnessing genomics and transcriptomics approaches to improve female fertility in beef cattle—A review. Animals. 13(20):3284. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13203284.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13203284

Interpretive Summary: Female fertility is the foundation of the cow–calf industry, impacting both efficiency and profitability. Reproductive failure is the primary reason why beef cows are sold in the U.S. and the cause of an estimated annual gross loss of USD 2.8 billion. In this review, we discuss the status of the genomics, transcriptomics, and systems genomics approaches currently applied to female fertility and the tools available to cow–calf producers to maximize genetic progress. We highlight the opportunities and limitations associated with using genomic and transcriptomic approaches to discover genes and regulatory mechanisms related to beef fertility. Considering the complex nature of fertility, significant advances in precision breeding will rely on holistic, multidisciplinary approaches to further advance our ability to understand, predict, and improve reproductive performance. While these technologies have advanced our knowledge, the next step is to translate research findings from bench to on-farm applications.

Technical Abstract: Female fertility is the foundation of the cow–calf industry, impacting both efficiency and profitability. Reproductive failure is the primary reason why beef cows are sold in the U.S. and the cause of an estimated annual gross loss of USD 2.8 billion. In this review, we discuss the status of the genomics, transcriptomics, and systems genomics approaches currently applied to female fertility and the tools available to cow–calf producers to maximize genetic progress. We highlight the opportunities and limitations associated with using genomic and transcriptomic approaches to discover genes and regulatory mechanisms related to beef fertility. Considering the complex nature of fertility, significant advances in precision breeding will rely on holistic, multidisciplinary approaches to further advance our ability to understand, predict, and improve reproductive performance. While these technologies have advanced our knowledge, the next step is to translate research findings from bench to on-farm applications.