Genome editing approaches to augment livestock breeding programs

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Genetics
• Animal Breeding

Background:

• Genome editing technologies present significant opportunities for livestock breeding.
• These tools can elucidate gene function and identify variants for monogenic traits.
• They enable precise introduction of beneficial genetic variations into breeding programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential applications of genome editing in livestock breeding.
• To discuss the integration of genome editing into existing breeding schemes.
• To highlight regulatory challenges and their potential impact on global trade.

Main Methods:

• Functional genomics to understand gene roles and identify trait-associated variants.
• Precise genetic modification for trait improvement, defect repair, and allele introgression.
• Germline modification and *in vitro* gamete generation to accelerate genetic gain.

Main Results:

• Genome editing can repair genetic defects, inactivate undesirable genes, and introgress favorable alleles/haplotypes.
• It can accelerate genetic progress by enabling germline replacement and potentially shortening generation intervals.
• Integration requires editing multiple elite animals and diverse breeds to avoid bottlenecks and maintain diversity.

Conclusions:

• Genome editing holds immense promise for enhancing livestock productivity and health.
• Seamless integration into breeding schemes necessitates careful consideration of genetic diversity and bottleneck avoidance.
• Disparate international regulations pose a significant risk to equitable access and could lead to global trade disruptions.