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A Protocol for Using Gene Set Enrichment Analysis to Identify the Appropriate Animal Model for Translational Research
Published on: August 16, 2017
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Applied animal genomics: results from the field
Alison L Van Eenennaam1, Kent A Weigel, Amy E Young
1Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, California 95616; email: alvaneenennaam@ucdavis.edu , ayoung@ucdavis.edu.
Annual Review of Animal Biosciences
|November 11, 2014
Summary
Genomic selection (GS) uses statistical methods to estimate animal genetic merit, revolutionizing dairy cattle breeding and showing promise in swine, poultry, and beef cattle industries. Implementation requires addressing key factors like phenotypes, training population size, and cost-benefit analysis for genetic gain.
Area of Science:
- Animal breeding and genetics
- Quantitative genetics
- Genomic prediction
Background:
- Genomic selection (GS) leverages high-density genotype data and statistical models to predict an individual's genetic merit.
- GS has transformed dairy cattle breeding and is increasingly applied across other livestock industries, including swine, poultry, and beef cattle.
- Empirical studies demonstrate the application and varying success of GS in major animal protein production sectors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review empirical findings on the application of genomic selection in swine, poultry, and beef cattle breeding.
- To identify critical considerations for the successful implementation of GS in animal genetic improvement programs.
- To briefly review studies examining the impact of GS on optimal breeding scheme design.
Main Methods:
- Review of empirical field studies applying genomic selection in livestock breeding programs.
- Analysis of translational considerations for GS implementation.
- Synthesis of research on breeding scheme design modifications due to GS.
Main Results:
- GS has been successfully applied in dairy, swine, poultry, and beef cattle, with varying outcomes.
- Key implementation challenges include defining economic traits, optimizing training population size, cost-effective genotyping, and practical field application.
- The cost-benefit analysis of GS versus the realized genetic gain is crucial for successful adoption.
Conclusions:
- Genomic selection is a powerful tool with proven success in dairy and growing potential in other livestock sectors.
- Successful GS implementation hinges on addressing practical and economic considerations, including data quality and cost-effectiveness.
- GS adoption may necessitate redesigning breeding schemes to maximize genetic improvement efficiency.
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