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A new genomics tool—the
50k SNP BeadChip—makes it easier for scientists to transfer genetic
information for use by the beef and dairy cattle industries. Click the image
for more information about it.
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Here's the Beef: Identifying DNA Markers and
Traits
By Laura
McGinnis August 5, 2008
Agricultural Research Service
(ARS) scientists are using a new tool to find relationships between DNA markers
and economically significant traits in cattle.
The new tool, called the Illumina BovineSNP50 BeadChip, is a glass
slide containing thousands of DNA markers, some of which may be associated with
important production traits such as disease resistance.
ARS researchers at the
Roman
L. Hruska U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) in Clay Center, Neb.,
and the
National
Animal Disease Center in Ames, Iowa, are using the BeadChip to research
bovine respiratory disease (BRD). Cattle can carry BRD without showing any
symptoms, so infected animals can be difficult to identify. Tools like the
BeadChip may facilitate identification of genetic markers for traits like BRD
resistance.
Another project employing the BeadChip technology is a USMARC
investigation into the influence of genetics on feed efficiency. Research
leader Cal
Ferrell, geneticist
Mark
Allan and their colleagues are identifying phenotypes--visible
characteristics--that relate to post-weaning feed efficiency and lifetime
productivity in beef cattle.
The researchers are also using the BeadChip to find relationships
between DNA markers and phenotypes that can be used to enhance genetic
selection and management in beef cattle. These studies could eventually allow
researchers to develop tools that can be used to guide animal breeding
selection and management decisions.
The BeadChip has research applications for both beef and dairy cattle.
Design of the BeadChip was led by ARS researchers at Beltsville, Md., in
collaboration with ARS scientists at Clay Center and colleagues from the
University of Missouri and the
University of Alberta in Canada. The chip
is being used at all those locations and many others--in at least 23 locations
in 11 countries.
ARS is a scientific research agency of the
U.S. Department of
Agriculture.
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