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Genomic Selection in Dairy Cattle: The USDA Experience
George R Wiggans1, John B Cole1, Suzanne M Hubbard1
1Animal Genomics and Improvement Laboratory, Agricultural Research Service, US Department of Agriculture, Beltsville, Maryland 20705-2350; email: george.wiggans@ars.usda.gov , john.cole@ars.usda.gov , suzanne.hubbard@ars.usda.gov.
Genomic selection, using single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), has transformed dairy cattle breeding by enhancing genetic progress and selection accuracy. This technology offers reliable genomic evaluations, improving breeding efficiency and reducing costs.
Area of Science:
- Animal Genetics
- Quantitative Genetics
- Animal Breeding
Background:
- Genomic selection has become a cornerstone in modern dairy cattle breeding since the early 2000s.
- Advancements in genotyping technologies have enabled the cost-effective analysis of numerous single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).
- The development and implementation of SNP genotyping chips have facilitated large-scale genomic evaluations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the impact and adoption of genomic selection in US dairy cattle breeding.
- To highlight the key milestones in the development and release of genomic evaluations.
- To underscore the benefits of integrating genomic data into traditional breeding programs.
Main Methods:
- Development of SNP genotyping assays and chips for high-throughput analysis.
- Selection of informative SNPs for genomic evaluation using extensive genotype data.
- Implementation of official genomic evaluations by the USDA for various dairy breeds.
Main Results:
- Commercial SNP chips with over 54,000 markers became available by 2007.
- Official USDA genomic evaluations were initiated starting in 2009 for major dairy breeds.
- Producers have widely accepted genomic evaluations as accurate predictors of breeding value.
- Genomic selection has doubled genetic progress, reduced generation intervals, and improved selection accuracy.
Conclusions:
- Genomic selection has revolutionized dairy cattle breeding, leading to significant improvements in genetic gain.
- The integration of genomics has enhanced selection accuracy, reduced progeny testing costs, and enabled the identification of genetic disorders.
- Genomic evaluations provide reliable and efficient tools for dairy producers to improve herd genetics.
