Harnessing Genomics and Transcriptomics Approaches to Improve Female Fertility in Beef Cattle—A Review

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.

Anti‐Müllerian hormone: A novel biomarker for detecting bovine freemartinism

“…The sustainability of the cattle industry hinges on the crucial factors of good fertility and longevity (Kertz et al., 2023). Yet, infertility or subfertility significantly impedes sustainable cattle production, particularly in heifers.…”

“…Distinguishing between fertile and infertile heifers is of utmost importance for farms. Therefore, carefully selecting heifers is pivotal for ensuring the overall profitability and sustainability of the cow–heifer sector (Kertz et al., 2023; Marrella & Biase, 2023).…”

“…It is noteworthy that vascular anastomoses are estimated to develop in up to 97% of bovine twin pregnancies (Esteves et al., 2012). For this reason, it is crucial for businesses to efficiently and practically identify freemartin animals in herd management, animal transactions, import–export activities, and various other operational considerations (Cabrera & Fricke, 2021; Kertz et al., 2023; López‐Gatius & Garcia‐Ispierto, 2023).…”

“…AMH is a widely utilized marker for ovarian reserve in cattle (Alward & Bohlen, 2020; Jazmín et al., 2023; Mossa et al., 2017; Mossa & Ireland, 2019; Umer et al., 2019). In Freemartin heifers, the development of genital organs is suppressed during pregnancy, resulting in anticipated minimal ovarian reserves in these animals (Alacam, 2015; Cabrera & Fricke, 2021; Kertz et al., 2023; Long, 1990; López‐Gatius & Garcia‐Ispierto, 2023; Senünver & Nak, 2015; Short, 1970). Considering the preceding background, the objective of this study is threefold: (i) to compare the AMH levels between cyclic heifers and Freemartin heifers that have reached adulthood within the same age group of the Holstein breed, (ii) to ascertain whether AMH can serve as a reliable biomarker for identifying adult Freemartin animals, and (iii) to establish the threshold and reference values of serum AMH levels for Freemartin animals, should it be employed as a marker.…”

Mapping Expression Quantitative Trait Loci Targeting Candidate Genes for Pregnancy in Beef Cows

“…Signaling pathways involved with tissue remodeling, the immune system, and inflammatory response were shared across studies investigating fertility [14][15][16]. Yet, there is limited overlapping of candidate genes among them [17].…”