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El Amiri B, Rahim A. Exploring Endogenous and Exogenous Factors for Successful Artificial Insemination in Sheep: A Global Overview. Vet Sci 2024; 11:86. [PMID: 38393104 PMCID: PMC10891879 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11020086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Artificial insemination (AI) plays a vital role in animal breeding programs. AI is applied to enhance animal genetics and facilitate the widespread integration of desirable characteristics with a high potential for productivity. However, in sheep, this biotechnology is not commonly practicable due to multi-factorial challenges, resulting in inconsistent outcomes and unpredictable results. Thoughtful selection of semen donors and recipients based on genetic merit deeply impacts ovine AI outcomes. Additionally, endogenous factors such as breed, age, fertility traits, genetic disorders, and cervical anatomy in ewes contribute to ovine AI success. Extensive research has studied exogenous influences on sexual behavior, reproductive health, and hormonal regulation, all impacting ovine AI success. These exogenous factors include techniques like estrus induction, synchronization, semen handling methods (fresh/chilled/frozen), and insemination methods (cervical/laparoscopic), as well as nutritional factors and climatic conditions. This overview of the literature highlights the endogenous and exogenous challenges facing successful ovine AI and proposes strategies and best practices for improvement. This paper will serve as a guide for understanding and optimizing the success of ovine AI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bouchra El Amiri
- Animal Production Unit, Regional Center Agricultural Research of Settat, National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), Avenue Ennasr, P.O. Box 415 Rabat Principal, Rabat 10090, Morocco;
- African Sustainable Agriculture Research Institute (ASARI), Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P), Laayoune 70000, Morocco
| | - Abdellatif Rahim
- Animal Production Unit, Regional Center Agricultural Research of Settat, National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), Avenue Ennasr, P.O. Box 415 Rabat Principal, Rabat 10090, Morocco;
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Neurosciences, Natural Resources and Environment, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Hassan First University of Settat, P.O. Box 577, Settat 26000, Morocco
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van Staaveren N, Hyland E, Houlahan K, Lynch C, Miglior F, Kelton DF, Schenkel FS, Baes CF. Recording of calf diseases for potential use in breeding programs: a case study on calf respiratory illness and diarrhea. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2023. [DOI: 10.1139/cjas-2022-0112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Calf diseases remain a challenge for dairy producers from both an economic and welfare perspective. Genetically selecting for disease resistance in calves is a promising approach that could contribute to sustainable dairy farming. Genetic evaluations, however, require well-defined and consistently recorded phenotypes to be successful. Therefore, this study aimed to understand the current state of calf disease recording on Ontario farms. Calf disease records of respiratory illness and diarrhea were available from the national milk recording organization (Lactanet Canada, Guelph, Ontario, Canada) from 2009 to 2020. A case study was conducted to describe calf disease diagnoses and recording practices by surveying a subset of 13 Ontario dairy producers. The percentage of milk recorded farms that recorded calf respiratory illness and calf diarrhea increased from 2.6% in 2009 to 11.1% in 2020. Potential sources of data loss were identified along the information chain from farm to genetic evaluation database. Clear definitions and thresholds to diagnose calf disease, standard operating procedures for data recording, as well as a data transfer pipeline, which includes exchange formats, are needed to facilitate the inclusion of calf health traits in genetic evaluations.
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Ferré LB, Alvarez-Gallardo H, Romo S, Fresno C, Stroud T, Stroud B, Lindsey B, Kjelland ME. Transvaginal ultrasound-guided oocyte retrieval in cattle: State-of-the-art and its impact on the in vitro fertilization embryo production outcome. Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58:363-378. [PMID: 36510745 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Transvaginal ultrasound-guided oocyte retrieval (commonly called OPU) and in vitro embryo production (IVP) in cattle has shown significant progress in recent years, in part, as a result of a better understanding of the full potential of these tools by end users. The combination of OPU and IVP (OPU-IVP) has been successfully and widely commercially used worldwide. The main advantages are a greater number of embryos and pregnancies per unit of time, faster genetic progress due to donor quick turn around and more elite sires mating combinations, larger spectrum of female age (calves, prepuberal, heifer, cow) and condition (open, pregnant) from which to retrieve oocytes, a reduced number of sperm (even sexed) required to fertilize the oocytes, among other benefits. OPU-IVP requires significant less donor preparation in comparison to conventional embryo transfer (<50% of usual FSH injections needed) to the extent of no stimulating hormones (FSH) are necessary. Donor synchronization, stimulation, OPU technique, oocyte competence, embryo performance, and its impact on cryopreservation and pregnancy are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis B Ferré
- National Institute of Agricultural Technology (INTA), Chacra Experimental Integrada Barrow (MDA-INTA), Tres Arroyos, Argentina
| | - Horacio Alvarez-Gallardo
- Centro Nacional de Recursos Genéticos, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias, Tepatitlán de Morelos, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Salvador Romo
- Laboratorio de Reproducción, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuautitlán, Estado de Mexico, Mexico
| | - Cristóbal Fresno
- Health Sciences Research Center (CICSA), Anáhuac University of México, Huixquilucan, Mexico
| | | | - Brad Stroud
- Stroud Veterinary Embryo Services, Inc, Weatherford, Texas, USA
| | | | - Michael E Kjelland
- Conservation, Genetics and Biotech, LLC, Valley City, North Dakota, USA.,Mayville State University, Mayville, North Dakota, USA
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Neves ACC, Prado OR, Blaschi W, Barreiros TRR, Deiss L, Lahoz B, Folch J, Alabart JL, de Morais RN, de Camargo Campos L, Monteiro ALG. ANTI-MULLERIAN HORMONE AS A PREDICTIVE ENDOCRINE MARKER FOR SELECTION OF WHITE DORPER EWE LAMBS AT PREPUBERTAL AGE. Small Rumin Res 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2023.106932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/21/2023]
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Machado PC, Brito LF, Martins R, Pinto LFB, Silva MR, Pedrosa VB. Genome-Wide Association Analysis Reveals Novel Loci Related with Visual Score Traits in Nellore Cattle Raised in Pasture-Based Systems. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243526. [PMID: 36552446 PMCID: PMC9774243 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Body conformation traits assessed based on visual scores are widely used in Zebu cattle breeding programs. The aim of this study was to identify genomic regions and biological pathways associated with body conformation (CONF), finishing precocity (PREC), and muscling (MUSC) in Nellore cattle. The measurements based on visual scores were collected in 20,807 animals raised in pasture-based systems in Brazil. In addition, 2775 animals were genotyped using a 35 K SNP chip, which contained 31,737 single nucleotide polymorphisms after quality control. Single-step GWAS was performed using the BLUPF90 software while candidate genes were identified based on the Ensembl Genes 69. PANTHER and REVIGO platforms were used to identify key biological pathways and STRING to create gene networks. Novel candidate genes were revealed associated with CONF, including ALDH9A1, RXRG, RAB2A, and CYP7A1, involved in lipid metabolism. The genes associated with PREC were ELOVL5, PID1, DNER, TRIP12, and PLCB4, which are related to the synthesis of long-chain fatty acids, lipid metabolism, and muscle differentiation. For MUSC, the most important genes associated with muscle development were SEMA6A, TIAM2, UNC5A, and UIMC1. The polymorphisms identified in this study can be incorporated in commercial genotyping panels to improve the accuracy of genomic evaluations for visual scores in beef cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela C. Machado
- Department of Animal Sciences, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa 84030-900, PR, Brazil
| | - Luiz F. Brito
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Rafaela Martins
- Department of Animal Sciences, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa 84030-900, PR, Brazil
| | - Luis Fernando B. Pinto
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Adhemar de Barros 500, Ondina, Salvador 40170-110, BA, Brazil
| | - Marcio R. Silva
- Melhore Animal and Katayama Agropecuaria Lda, Guararapes 16700-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Victor B. Pedrosa
- Department of Animal Sciences, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa 84030-900, PR, Brazil
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Correspondence:
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Identification of large offspring syndrome during pregnancy through ultrasonography and maternal blood transcriptome analyses. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10540. [PMID: 35732675 PMCID: PMC9217928 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-14597-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro production (IVP) of embryos in cattle can result in large/abnormal offspring syndrome (LOS/AOS) which is characterized by macrosomia. LOS can cause dystocia and lead to the death of dam and calf. Currently, no test exists to identify LOS pregnancies. We hypothesized that fetal ultrasonography and/or maternal blood markers are useful to identify LOS. Bovine fetuses were generated by artificial insemination (control) or IVP. Fetal ultrasonographies were taken on gestation D55 (D55) and fetal collections performed on D56 or D105 (gestation in cattle ≈ D280). IVP fetuses weighing ≥ 97 percentile of the control weight were considered LOS. Ultrasonography results show that the product of six D55 measurements can be used to identify extreme cases of LOS. To determine whether maternal blood can be used to identify LOS, leukocyte mRNA from 23 females was sequenced. Unsupervised hierarchical clustering grouped the transcriptomes of the two females carrying the two largest LOS fetuses. Comparison of the leukocyte transcriptomes of these two females to the transcriptome of all other females identified several misregulated transcripts on gestation D55 and D105 with LOC783838 and PCDH1 being misregulated at both time-points. Together our data suggest that LOS is identifiable during pregnancy in cattle.
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Trujano-Chavez MZ, Ruíz-Flores A, López-Ordaz R, Pérez-Rodríguez P. Genetic diversity in reproductive traits of Braunvieh cattle determined with SNP markers. Vet Med Sci 2022; 8:1709-1720. [PMID: 35545927 PMCID: PMC9297803 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Braunvieh is an important dual‐purpose breed in the Mexican tropics. The study of its genetic diversity is key to implementing genetic improvement programs. This study was conducted to determine genetic diversity of reproductive traits in a Mexican Braunvieh beef cattle population using single nucleotide polymorphisms in candidate genes. Information from 24 genes with 52 intra‐genic loci reported in literature to be associated with productive life, pregnancy rate and cow and heifer conception rate of 150 Braunvieh males and females was considered. Observed heterozygosity (Ho) revealed high genetic diversity for the studied traits, Ho = 0.42 ± 0.087, relative to that of other populations of the same breed. Cluster analyses were carried out using the Ward and K‐means algorithms. These analyses revealed high genetic diversity that was observed in the biplot of non‐metric multi‐dimensional scaling. It was found that clustering strategy allowed visualisation of distant groups by genotype but not by favourable alleles in all the loci. We found that the genes CSNK1E, DNAH11, DSC2, IBSP and OCLN affected most of the traits in our study and they were highly informative. Therefore, they represent a potential resource for selection and crossbreeding programs of the traits studied in Braunvieh. The analyses showed that the Mexican Braunvieh population has a high level of genetic diversity, arguably due to decades‐long adaptation to the Mexican tropics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Agustín Ruíz-Flores
- Posgrado en Producción Animal, Universidad Autónoma Chapingo, Texcoco, Estado de México, Mexico
| | - Rufino López-Ordaz
- Posgrado en Producción Animal, Universidad Autónoma Chapingo, Texcoco, Estado de México, Mexico
| | - Paulino Pérez-Rodríguez
- Socio Economía Estadística e Informática, Posgrado en Producción Animal, Texcoco, Estado de México, Mexico
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Mulim HA, Brito LF, Pinto LFB, Ferraz JBS, Grigoletto L, Silva MR, Pedrosa VB. Characterization of runs of homozygosity, heterozygosity-enriched regions, and population structure in cattle populations selected for different breeding goals. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:209. [PMID: 35291953 PMCID: PMC8925140 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08384-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A decline in the level of genetic diversity in livestock can result in reduced response to selection, greater incidence of genetic defects, and inbreeding depression. In this context, various metrics have been proposed to assess the level of genetic diversity in selected populations. Therefore, the main goals of this study were to: 1) investigate the population structure of 16 cattle populations from 15 different pure breeds or composite populations, which have been selected for different breeds goals; and, 2) identify and compare runs of homozygosity (ROH) and heterozygosity-enriched regions (HER) based on different single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) panels and whole-genome sequence data (WGS), followed by functional genomic analyses. Results A total of 24,187 ROH were found across all cattle populations, with 55% classified in the 2-4 Mb size group. Fourteen homozygosity islands were found in five populations, where four ROH islands located on BTA1, BTA5, BTA16, and BTA19 overlapped between the Brahman (BRM) and Gyr (GIR) breeds. A functional analysis of the genes found in these islands revealed candidate genes known to play a role in the melanogenesis, prolactin signaling, and calcium signaling pathways. The correlations between inbreeding metrics ranged from 0.02 to 0.95, where the methods based on homozygous genotypes (FHOM), uniting of gametes (FUNI), and genotype additive variance (FGRM) showed strong correlations among them. All methods yielded low to moderate correlations with the inbreeding coefficients based on runs of homozygosity (FROH). For the HER, 3576 runs and 26 islands, distributed across all autosomal chromosomes, were found in regions containing genes mainly related to the immune system, indicating potential balancing selection. Although the analyses with WGS did not enable detection of the same island patterns, it unraveled novel regions not captured when using SNP panel data. Conclusions The cattle populations that showed the largest amount of ROH and HER were Senepol (SEN) and Montana (MON), respectively. Overlapping ROH islands were identified between GIR and BRM breeds, indicating a possible historical connection between the populations. The distribution and pattern of ROH and HER are population specific, indicating that different breeds have experienced divergent selection processes or different genetic processes. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-022-08384-0.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luiz F Brito
- Department of Animal Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA
| | | | - José Bento Sterman Ferraz
- Department of Animal Sciences, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Lais Grigoletto
- Department of Animal Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, USA.,Department of Animal Sciences, College of Animal Sciences and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, Pirassununga, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Victor Breno Pedrosa
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Bahia, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. .,Department of Animal Science, State University of Ponta Grossa, Av. General Carlos Cavalcanti, 4748 - Uvaranas, Ponta Grossa, PR, 84030-900, Brazil.
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Naab FZ, Coles D, Goddard E, Frewer LJ. Public Perceptions Regarding Genomic Technologies Applied to Breeding Farm Animals: A Qualitative Study. BIOTECH 2021; 10:biotech10040028. [PMID: 35822802 PMCID: PMC9245485 DOI: 10.3390/biotech10040028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The societal acceptability of different applications of genomic technologies to animal production systems will determine whether their innovation trajectories will reach the commercialisation stage. Importantly, technological implementation and commercialisation trajectories, regulation, and policy development need to take account of public priorities and attitudes. More effective co-production practices will ensure the application of genomic technologies to animals aligns with public priorities and are acceptable to society. Consumer rejection of, and limited demand for, animal products developed using novel genomic technologies will determine whether they are integration into the food system. However, little is known about whether genomic technologies that accelerate breeding but do not introduce cross-species genetic changes are more acceptable to consumers than those that do. Five focus groups, held in the north east of England, were used to explore the perceptions of, and attitudes towards, the use of genomic technologies in breeding farm animals for the human food supply chain. Overall, study participants were more positive towards genomic technologies applied to promote animal welfare (e.g., improved disease resistance), environmental sustainability, and human health. Animal “disenhancement” was viewed negatively and increased food production alone was not perceived as a potential benefit. In comparison to gene editing, research participants were most negative about genetic modification and the application of gene drives, independent of the benefits delivered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis Z. Naab
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK; (F.Z.N.); (D.C.)
| | - David Coles
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK; (F.Z.N.); (D.C.)
- Enhance International, The Bacchus, Elsdon, Newcastle upon Tyne NE19 1AA, UK
| | - Ellen Goddard
- Agricultural Marketing and Business, Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences, 515 General Services Building, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2H1, Canada;
| | - Lynn J. Frewer
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 7RU, UK; (F.Z.N.); (D.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-(0)7553152743
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Asselstine V, Lam S, Miglior F, Brito LF, Sweett H, Guan L, Waters SM, Plastow G, Cánovas A. The potential for mitigation of methane emissions in ruminants through the application of metagenomics, metabolomics, and other -OMICS technologies. J Anim Sci 2021; 99:6377879. [PMID: 34586400 PMCID: PMC8480417 DOI: 10.1093/jas/skab193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Ruminant supply chains contribute 5.7 gigatons of CO2-eq per annum, which represents approximately 80% of the livestock sector emissions. One of the largest sources of emission in the ruminant sector is methane (CH4), accounting for approximately 40% of the sectors total emissions. With climate change being a growing concern, emphasis is being put on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, including those from ruminant production. Various genetic and environmental factors influence cattle CH4 production, such as breed, genetic makeup, diet, management practices, and physiological status of the host. The influence of genetic variability on CH4 yield in ruminants indicates that genomic selection for reduced CH4 emissions is possible. Although the microbiology of CH4 production has been studied, further research is needed to identify key differences in the host and microbiome genomes and how they interact with one another. The advancement of “-omics” technologies, such as metabolomics and metagenomics, may provide valuable information in this regard. Improved understanding of genetic mechanisms associated with CH4 production and the interaction between the microbiome profile and host genetics will increase the rate of genetic progress for reduced CH4 emissions. Through a systems biology approach, various “-omics” technologies can be combined to unravel genomic regions and genetic markers associated with CH4 production, which can then be used in selective breeding programs. This comprehensive review discusses current challenges in applying genomic selection for reduced CH4 emissions, and the potential for “-omics” technologies, especially metabolomics and metagenomics, to minimize such challenges. The integration and evaluation of different levels of biological information using a systems biology approach is also discussed, which can assist in understanding the underlying genetic mechanisms and biology of CH4 production traits in ruminants and aid in reducing agriculture’s overall environmental footprint.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Asselstine
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock (CGIL), Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Stephanie Lam
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock (CGIL), Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Filippo Miglior
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock (CGIL), Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Luiz F Brito
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock (CGIL), Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada.,Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA
| | - Hannah Sweett
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock (CGIL), Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Leluo Guan
- Livestock Gentec, Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2C8, Canada
| | - Sinead M Waters
- Animal and Bioscience Research Department, Teagasc Grange, Dunsany, Co. Meath, C15 PW93, Ireland
| | - Graham Plastow
- Livestock Gentec, Department of Agricultural, Food and Nutritional Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2C8, Canada
| | - Angela Cánovas
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock (CGIL), Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, N1G 2W1, Canada
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Yadav T, Magotra A, Kumar R, Bangar YC, Garg AR, Kumar S, Jeet V, Malik BS. Evaluation of candidate genotype of leptin gene associated with fertility and production traits in Hardhenu (Bos taurus × Bos indicus) cattle. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:1698-1705. [PMID: 32965761 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 09/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The present study was conducted on Hardhenu cattle to screen genomic region of leptin gene with an objective to find the association of genotypes with fertility and production traits. The association analysis with traits under study was analysed by least squares analysis of variance by taking SNPs genotype as fixed effects in the statistical model. The genotypic frequencies with respect to targeted loci g.92450765 G > A indicated that AG (0.54) genotype was highest in Hardhenu cattle. Chi-squared tests showed that g.92450765G > A SNP meet with the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (p > .05).The association analysis revealed significant association of genotypes with total milk yield (TMY) and 305 days milk yield (MY) (p < .05). Service period (SP) and calving interval (CI) were also found significantly associated with genotypes (p < .05). Whereas, lactation length (LL), dry days (DD) and age at first calving (AFC) did not divulge any significant association with genotype. The AG and GG genotypes were associated with higher milk yields as compared to AA genotype, indicating that allele G was associated with superior milk performance. However, AA genotyped cattle found to be favourable with SP, CI and artificial insemination (AI) per conception compared to AG and GG genotyped cows. Chi-square analysis revealed that genetic variants of g.92450765 G > A SNP of leptin gene differ significantly with regard to reproductive disorders incidence (p < .05). The frequency of GG genotype (88.89%) in the affected animal group was very high followed by AG. The animals with GG genotype were found to be more susceptible to reproductive disorders as suggested by the higher odd ratio value (16.00) in logistic model. These observations and their differential association with the fertility and production traits can be utilized as an aid to selection for genetic improvement of antagonistic traits in dairy cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tejwanti Yadav
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (LUVAS), Hisar, India
| | - Ankit Magotra
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (LUVAS), Hisar, India
| | - Ramesh Kumar
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (LUVAS), Hisar, India
| | - Yogesh C Bangar
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (LUVAS), Hisar, India
| | - Asha Rani Garg
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (LUVAS), Hisar, India
| | - Sunil Kumar
- Department of Livestock Farm Complex, LUVAS, Hisar, India
| | - Vikram Jeet
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (LUVAS), Hisar, India
| | - Baljit S Malik
- Department of Animal Genetics and Breeding, Lala Lajpat Rai University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (LUVAS), Hisar, India
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VanRaden PM. Symposium review: How to implement genomic selection. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:5291-5301. [PMID: 32331884 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Genomic selection was adopted very quickly in the 10 yr after first implementation, and breeders continue to find new uses for genomic testing. Breeding values with higher reliability earlier in life are estimated by combining DNA genotypes for many thousands of loci using existing identification, pedigree, and phenotype databases for millions of animals. Quality control for both new and previous data is greatly improved by comparing genomic and pedigree relationships to correct parent-progeny conflicts and discover many additional ancestors. Many quantitative trait loci and gene tests have been added to previous assays that used only evenly spaced, highly polymorphic markers. Imputation now combines genotypes from many assays of differing marker densities. Prediction models have gradually advanced from normal or Bayesian distributions within trait and breed to single-step, multitrait, or other more complex models, such as multibreed models that may be needed for crossbred prediction. Genomic selection was initially applied to males to predict progeny performance but is now widely applied to females or even embryos to predict their own later performance. The initial focus on additive merit has expanded to include mating programs, genomic inbreeding, and recessive alleles. Many producers now use DNA testing to decide which heifers should be inseminated with elite dairy, beef, or sex-sorted semen, which should be embryo donors or recipients, or which should be sold or kept for breeding. Because some of these decisions are expensive to delay, predictions are now provided weekly instead of every few months. Predictions from international genomic databases are often more accurate and cost-effective than those from within-country databases that were previously designed for progeny testing unless local breeds, conditions, or traits differ greatly from the larger database. Selection indexes include many new traits, often with lower heritability or requiring large initial investments to obtain phenotypes, which provide further incentive to cooperate internationally. The genomic prediction methods developed for dairy cattle are now applied widely to many animal, human, and plant populations and could be applied to many more.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M VanRaden
- Animal Genomics and Improvement Laboratory, USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Beltsville, MD 20705-2350.
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Asadollahpour Nanaei H, Ayatollahi Mehrgardi A, Esmailizadeh A. Whole-genome sequence analysis reveals candidate genomic footprints and genes associated with reproductive traits in Thoroughbred horse. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55:200-208. [PMID: 31858623 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The primary objective of most horse breeding operations was to maximize reproductive efficiency and minimize the cost of producing live foals. Here, we compared individual horses from the Thoroughbred population (n = 17), known as a horse breed with poor reproductive performance, with other six horse populations (n = 28), to detect genomic signatures of positive selection underlying of reproductive traits. A number of protein-coding genes with significant (p-value <.01) higher FST values (616 genes) and a lower value for nucleotide diversity (π) (310 genes) were identified. The results of our study revealed some candidate genes such as IGFBP2, IGFBP5, GDF9, BRINP3 and GRID1 are possibly associated with functions influencing reproductive traits. These genes may have been under selection due to their essential roles in reproduction performance in horses. The candidate selected genes identified in this work should be of great interest for future research into genetic architecture of traits relevant to horse breeding programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ali Esmailizadeh
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
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Baes CF, Makanjuola BO, Miglior F, Marras G, Howard JT, Fleming A, Maltecca C. Symposium review: The genomic architecture of inbreeding: How homozygosity affects health and performance. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:2807-2817. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-15520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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15
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Zhao H, Zhang S, Wu X, Pan C, Li X, Lei C, Chen H, Lan X. DNA methylation pattern of the goat PITX1 gene and its effects on milk performance. Arch Anim Breed 2019; 62:59-68. [PMID: 31807614 PMCID: PMC6852879 DOI: 10.5194/aab-62-59-2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Paired-like homeodomain transcription factor 1 (PITX1) is a pivotal
gene in the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, which is a well-known
pathway affecting lactation performance. The aim of this study was to analyze
the DNA methylation profile of the PITX1 gene and its relevance to
milk performance in Xinong Saanen dairy goats; thus, potential epigenetic
markers of lactation performance were identified. A total of 267 goat blood
samples were divided into “low” and “high” groups according to two milk
traits: the average milk yield (AMY) and the average milk density (AMD). One
CpG island in the 3′-flanking region of the PITX1 gene was
identified as being related to milk performance. Fisher's exact test
demonstrated that the methylation rates of the overall CpG island and the 3rd
and 12th CpG-dinucleotide loci in the blood were significantly associated
with the AMY, and the overall methylation rate of the high AMY group was
relative hypomethylation compared with the low AMY group. The overall
methylation rates of this CpG island in mammary gland tissue from dry and
lactation periods again exhibited a significant difference: the lactation
period showed relative hypomethylation compared with the dry period.
Bioinformatic transcription factor binding site prediction identified some
lactation performance related transcription factors in this CpG island, such
as CTCF, STAT, SMAD, CDEF, SP1, and KLFS. Briefly, overall methylation
changes of the CpG island in the PITX1 gene are relevant to
lactation performance, which will be valuable for future studies and
epigenetic marker-assisted selection (eMAS) in the breeding of goats with
respect to lactation performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyu Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Sihuan Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xianfeng Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Chuanying Pan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xiangchen Li
- Institute of Beijing Animal Science and Veterinary, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Beijing 100194, China
| | - Chuzhao Lei
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Hong Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Xianyong Lan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, China
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16
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Fleming A, Baes CF, Martin AAA, Chud TCS, Malchiodi F, Brito LF, Miglior F. Symposium review: The choice and collection of new relevant phenotypes for fertility selection. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:3722-3734. [PMID: 30712934 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-15470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 12/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In dairy production, high fertility contributes to herd profitability by achieving greater production and maintaining short calving intervals. Improved management practices and genetic selection have contributed to reversing negative trends in dairy cow fertility, but further progress is still required. Phenotypes included in current genetic evaluations are largely interval and binary traits calculated from insemination and calving date records. Several indicator traits such as calving, health, variation in body condition score, and longevity traits also apply to genetic improvement of fertility. Several fertility traits are included in the selection indices of many countries, but for improved selection, the development of novel phenotypes that more closely describe the physiology of reproduction and limit management bias could be more effective. Progesterone-based phenotypes can be determined from milk samples to describe the heritable interval from calving to corpus luteum activity, as well as additional measures of cow cyclicity. A fundamental component of artificial insemination practices is the observation of estrus. Novel phenotypes collected on estrous activity could be used to select for cows clearly displaying heat, as those cows are more likely to be inseminated at the right time and therefore have greater fertility performance. On-farm technologies, including in-line milk testing and activity monitors, may allow for phenotyping novel traits on large numbers of animals. Additionally, selection for improved fertility using traditional traits could benefit from refined and accurate recording and implementation of parameters such as pregnancy confirmation and reproductive management strategy, to differentiate embryonic or fetal loss, and to ensure selection for reproductive capability without producer intervention. Opportunities exist to achieve genetic improvement of reproductive efficiency in cattle using novel phenotypes, which is required for long-term sustainability of the dairy cattle population and industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Fleming
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada; Canadian Dairy Network, Guelph, ON, N1K 1E5, Canada.
| | - C F Baes
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - A A A Martin
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada; Animal Breeding and Genomics Centre, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, 6708PB, the Netherlands
| | - T C S Chud
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - F Malchiodi
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada; Semex Alliance, Guelph, ON, N1H 6J2, Canada
| | - L F Brito
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada; Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907
| | - F Miglior
- Centre for Genetic Improvement of Livestock, Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada; Canadian Dairy Network, Guelph, ON, N1K 1E5, Canada
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17
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Nosrati M, Asadollahpour Nanaei H, Amiri Ghanatsaman Z, Esmailizadeh A. Whole genome sequence analysis to detect signatures of positive selection for high fecundity in sheep. Reprod Domest Anim 2018; 54:358-364. [PMID: 30359467 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Ovulation rate and prolificacy are the most important reproductive traits that have major impact on the efficiency of lamb meat production. Here, we compared the whole genomes of the Romanov sheep, known as one of the high prolific breeds, and four other sheep breeds namely Assaf, Awassi, Cambridge and British du cher, to identify genetic mechanisms underlying prolificacy in sheep. Selection signature analysis revealed 637 and 477 protein-coding genes under positive selection from FST and nucleotide diversity (Pi) statistics, respectively. Further analysis showed that several candidate genes including LEPR, PDGFRL and KLF5 genes are involved in sheep prolificacy. The identified candidate genes in the selected regions are novel and provide new insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying prolificacy in sheep and can be useful in sheep breeding programmes to develop improved breeds for high reproductive efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Nosrati
- Department of Agriculture, Payame Noor University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hojjat Asadollahpour Nanaei
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran.,Young Researchers Society, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Zeinab Amiri Ghanatsaman
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran.,Young Researchers Society, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Esmailizadeh
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
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