Livestock and the promise of genomics

Abstract

The emergence of the middle class in countries such as Brazil, Russia, India, and China is resulting in increasing global demand for animal-based food products. This increase represents a unique opportunity for Canadian livestock producers to export their products to new markets and expand Canada's reputation as a global provider of safe and highest quality food items. This article has two major themes. First, current Canadian contributions to livestock genomics in the cattle and swine industries are outlined. Second, important future opportunities are discussed, including the high throughput collection of phenotypic data, development of environmentally friendly livestock, emergence of decision support software, and the use of Web 2.0. Through the use of genomic technologies, livestock producers can not only ensure that the nutritional demands of Canada are secured, but also play a pivotal role in ensuring the rest of the world is fed as well. Furthermore, investment through initiatives led by Genome Canada has ensured that Canada is favorably positioned to contribute cutting-edge solutions to meet this global challenge. Ultimately, genomic-based innovations will enable producers to increase efficiency, lower production costs, decrease the use of prophylactics, and limit the expenditure of resources.

Driving Adoption and Commercialization of Subunit Vaccines for Bovine Tuberculosis and Johne’s Disease: Policy Choices and Implications for Food Security

“…Recently, there has been increasing shift in dietary patterns globally involving high consumption of meat, particularly in less developed countries [67]. The emergence of the middle class in BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India and China) nations is increasingly translating into an increase in the global demand for animal-based food products, thereby offering the opportunity for increased exports to these markets [68]. The development of innovative vaccines through genomics should make a significant contribution to the increasing global demand for meat products by ensuring reliable and economical livestock production and consumption.…”

Rare phenotypes in domestic animals: unique resources for multiple applications

“…One major challenge is currently to connect the increasing knowledge of the genome with accurate phenotypic data from the field, which is called the ‘phenomic gap’ (Ludu & Plastow ). Focusing on endophenotypes (i.e.…”

Granulosa cells of prepubertal cattle respond to gonadotropin signaling and upregulate genes that promote follicular growth and prevent cell apoptosis

“…Modern genomic tools are being readily paired with assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in the animal production industry (Blondin, ; Ludu & Plastow, ). The ability to predict the production phenotype of a dairy animal at birth using genetic markers has developed a growing interest in reproducing genetically superior animals at prepubertal ages.…”