Identification of Genomic Instability in Cows Infected with BVD Virus

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Genetics
• Animal Reproduction
• Dairy Cattle Health

Background:

• Dairy cattle profitability is linked to animal health, reproduction, and genomic integrity.
• Bovine viral diarrhea (BVD) negatively impacts dairy cattle health and reproductive performance.
• Genomic instability can compromise animal well-being and economic viability in farming.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify genomic instability in dairy cows experiencing reproductive disorders after BVD virus infection.
• To evaluate the efficacy of cytogenetic assays in detecting genetic damage associated with BVD.
• To assess the potential of these assays for disease prevention and genetic resistance evaluation in cattle.

Main Methods:

• Peripheral blood samples were collected from Holstein-Friesian cows with reproductive problems (BVD positive) and healthy controls (BVD negative).
• Three cytogenetic assays were employed: sister chromatid exchange, fragile sites, and comet assay.
• Statistical analysis was performed to compare the frequency of genetic damage between groups and individuals.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in the average frequency of genetic damage were observed between BVD-positive and healthy cows.
• All three cytogenetic assays served as effective biomarkers for genomic stability.
• The comet assay demonstrated the highest sensitivity in detecting DNA damage in affected animals.

Conclusions:

• Cytogenetic assays, particularly the comet assay, can identify genomic instability in BVD-infected cows with reproductive disorders.
• These assays are valuable tools for disease prevention, monitoring, and evaluating the genetic resistance of dairy cattle.
• Identifying genomic damage aids breeders in making informed decisions for economic and breeding purposes.