We continue to monitor new research and important developments in genomic selection around the world.
This issue covers genomic testing, embryo transfer, and genotyping of cattle.
Nature: A genome-microbiome interaction discovered what affects feeding efficiency in dairy cattle
A revolutionary study published in the prestigious journal Nature demonstrates the potential of genomic selection to transform dairy farming. Scientists examined the complex relationship between the genotype of dairy cows and their microbiome, focusing on the Residual Feed Intake (RFI) coefficient—a key indicator of feeding efficiency.
The application of genomic selection in this field opens fundamentally new possibilities. Researchers have established that certain genetic variations directly influence the composition of the rumen microbiome, which in turn determines the efficiency of nutrient absorption. The symbiotic relationship between cows and their ruminal microflora can now be optimized through genomic selection to increase productivity.
Importantly, scientists have managed to identify polygenic regions of the genome associated with microbiome characteristics using advanced Bayesian network analysis. These discoveries significantly improve the accuracy of genomic evaluation of animals based on the RFI parameter, which has enormous practical significance, considering the relative novelty of this parameter and the lack of data about it in dairy farming.
This study confirms that modern genomic selection goes beyond traditional approaches, combining genotypic, microbial, and phenotypic data to create more accurate models for predicting animal productivity.
The application of genomic selection in this field opens fundamentally new possibilities. Researchers have established that certain genetic variations directly influence the composition of the rumen microbiome, which in turn determines the efficiency of nutrient absorption. The symbiotic relationship between cows and their ruminal microflora can now be optimized through genomic selection to increase productivity.
Importantly, scientists have managed to identify polygenic regions of the genome associated with microbiome characteristics using advanced Bayesian network analysis. These discoveries significantly improve the accuracy of genomic evaluation of animals based on the RFI parameter, which has enormous practical significance, considering the relative novelty of this parameter and the lack of data about it in dairy farming.
This study confirms that modern genomic selection goes beyond traditional approaches, combining genotypic, microbial, and phenotypic data to create more accurate models for predicting animal productivity.
FarmProgress: Embryo transfer for enhancing beef cattle genetics – opinion of a producer from Nebraska
Embryo transfer (ET) technology in cattle breeding continues to gain popularity. This method significantly accelerates genetic progress and improves cattle quality, which is particularly important for meeting industry standards and consumer demands.
Dustin Rippe, a Nebraska farmer who has been using the ET method for 18 years, shares his experience: "Using embryo transfer, the genetic value of cows becomes just as important as that of bulls. One bull can produce up to 50 calves per year, and with ET, this result can be achieved from a single cow, which significantly increases the value of elite females."
Rippe manages a purebred herd of Gelbvieh and Angus breeds and transfers about 200 embryos annually, allowing for significant genetic improvement and better financial performance. According to him, using this technology not only improves offspring quality but also reduces risks associated with selecting animals for breeding.
"After we perform fluorescence and insert embryos, we essentially skip an entire generation, which gives amazing results," explains Harold Bertz, Executive Director of the American Gelbvieh Association.
Nevertheless, it’s important to make the right choices when selecting females for embryo transfer. Rippe claims that the best approach is a combination of young heifers and proven cows. "We try to balance risks and choose both the best new heifers and cows with proven genetics," he adds.
Despite high initial investments, ET technology pays off after a few years through higher quality offspring. "The first year is the most difficult, but after 4 years you start to see profits," Rippe states.
In the future, IVF (in vitro fertilization) technologies may become an important complement to embryo transfer. IVF allows collecting oocytes from cows even when they are already pregnant, opening new possibilities for using the best genes.
These innovations will help producers achieve their goals faster and increase the efficiency of genetic programs on farms. This is already being done by our partners from Rumelco: they successfully use embryo transfer (ET) technology combined with genotyping to accelerate genetic progress in their herd. Genotyping allows for ranking animals and selecting different groups for embryo transfer: the best as embryo donors, the worst as recipients. If you want to learn more about how genomic evaluation improves embryo transfer results, please contact our specialists for information.
Dustin Rippe, a Nebraska farmer who has been using the ET method for 18 years, shares his experience: "Using embryo transfer, the genetic value of cows becomes just as important as that of bulls. One bull can produce up to 50 calves per year, and with ET, this result can be achieved from a single cow, which significantly increases the value of elite females."
Rippe manages a purebred herd of Gelbvieh and Angus breeds and transfers about 200 embryos annually, allowing for significant genetic improvement and better financial performance. According to him, using this technology not only improves offspring quality but also reduces risks associated with selecting animals for breeding.
"After we perform fluorescence and insert embryos, we essentially skip an entire generation, which gives amazing results," explains Harold Bertz, Executive Director of the American Gelbvieh Association.
Nevertheless, it’s important to make the right choices when selecting females for embryo transfer. Rippe claims that the best approach is a combination of young heifers and proven cows. "We try to balance risks and choose both the best new heifers and cows with proven genetics," he adds.
Despite high initial investments, ET technology pays off after a few years through higher quality offspring. "The first year is the most difficult, but after 4 years you start to see profits," Rippe states.
In the future, IVF (in vitro fertilization) technologies may become an important complement to embryo transfer. IVF allows collecting oocytes from cows even when they are already pregnant, opening new possibilities for using the best genes.
These innovations will help producers achieve their goals faster and increase the efficiency of genetic programs on farms. This is already being done by our partners from Rumelco: they successfully use embryo transfer (ET) technology combined with genotyping to accelerate genetic progress in their herd. Genotyping allows for ranking animals and selecting different groups for embryo transfer: the best as embryo donors, the worst as recipients. If you want to learn more about how genomic evaluation improves embryo transfer results, please contact our specialists for information.
Tribune Online: Nigerian and Brazilian companies join forces to increase cattle productivity through genetic technologies
Nigerian company SilagreenAgro has signed an agreement with Brazilian Embrapa-Geneplus to launch a cattle genetic improvement program. This project aims to increase productivity and profitability of livestock farms in Nigeria through the application of advanced genetic technologies.
As part of the partnership, Brazilian cattle genetics specialists arrived in the country and conducted animal selection at Adila Niche Ranch in Ogun State to determine their suitability for the program. The assessment was conducted with the participation of Dr. Renato Guimarães da Silva from Embrapa-Geneplus, founder and CEO of SilagreenAgro Michael Olusegun Akinruli, and the company’s chairman Dr. Amos Ayodele.
According to Akinruli, to increase animal protein production, it is necessary to identify early-maturing animals, determine the age of first calving, and evaluate dairy and maternal qualities of cows.
As part of the program, an online database is being created where farmers will be able to access genetic information about their animals, track their characteristics, and plan breeding work. Within a year, the results of genetic analysis will be published, which will help farmers make more informed decisions when selecting breeding stock.
SilagreenAgro is also actively addressing the feed shortage problem: over the past five years, the company has introduced improved forage crops, created hectares of pastures, established silage production, and conducts training for farmers on silage preparation. This project will be an important step in the development of animal husbandry in Nigeria, combining modern methods of genetic improvement and effective feed management.
As part of the partnership, Brazilian cattle genetics specialists arrived in the country and conducted animal selection at Adila Niche Ranch in Ogun State to determine their suitability for the program. The assessment was conducted with the participation of Dr. Renato Guimarães da Silva from Embrapa-Geneplus, founder and CEO of SilagreenAgro Michael Olusegun Akinruli, and the company’s chairman Dr. Amos Ayodele.
According to Akinruli, to increase animal protein production, it is necessary to identify early-maturing animals, determine the age of first calving, and evaluate dairy and maternal qualities of cows.
As part of the program, an online database is being created where farmers will be able to access genetic information about their animals, track their characteristics, and plan breeding work. Within a year, the results of genetic analysis will be published, which will help farmers make more informed decisions when selecting breeding stock.
SilagreenAgro is also actively addressing the feed shortage problem: over the past five years, the company has introduced improved forage crops, created hectares of pastures, established silage production, and conducts training for farmers on silage preparation. This project will be an important step in the development of animal husbandry in Nigeria, combining modern methods of genetic improvement and effective feed management.
Bizzbuzz: India introduces 4 technologies for livestock and dairy industry
The Central Government of India has introduced four key technologies to enhance livestock productivity and the dairy sector, available to all states across the country. The technologies aim to improve the genetic potential of livestock, reduce farmers' costs, and implement innovative solutions in the industry.
According to the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), the technologies include:
The sex-sorting semen technology allows for high accuracy (up to 90%) in increasing the birth of female calves. Previously, this technology was only available from foreign companies and cost around 1000 rupees per dose. Now, thanks to the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), the cost has been reduced to 250 rupees, making the technology accessible to farmers. This is expected not only to increase agricultural producers' income but also to reduce the number of stray cattle over the next five years.
The unified genomic chip is the first of its kind tool for selecting local cattle breeds. Unlike technologies used in the US and Germany for exotic breeds (Jersey, Holstein), "Gau Chip" (for cattle) and "Mahish Chip" (for buffaloes) are specifically designed for Indian breeds. These chips will enable early identification of high-quality bulls, significantly accelerating genetic improvement of herds.
The indigenous IVF technology will accelerate the process of genetic improvement in cattle, allowing results to be achieved in just one generation (about three years) instead of the traditional 21 years. This will increase cow productivity and accelerate the growth of the country’s dairy industry.
The livestock product tracking platform — created in partnership with GS1 India, will ensure transparency at all stages of dairy production and distribution.
These technologies will be an important milestone in modernizing Indian animal husbandry, helping farmers increase productivity, reduce costs, and strengthen the country’s food security.
According to the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), the technologies include:
- Technology for producing sexed cattle semen and sex-sorting
- Unified genomic chip for cattle and buffaloes
- Indigenous technology for IVF
- Livestock product tracking platform
The sex-sorting semen technology allows for high accuracy (up to 90%) in increasing the birth of female calves. Previously, this technology was only available from foreign companies and cost around 1000 rupees per dose. Now, thanks to the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB), the cost has been reduced to 250 rupees, making the technology accessible to farmers. This is expected not only to increase agricultural producers' income but also to reduce the number of stray cattle over the next five years.
The unified genomic chip is the first of its kind tool for selecting local cattle breeds. Unlike technologies used in the US and Germany for exotic breeds (Jersey, Holstein), "Gau Chip" (for cattle) and "Mahish Chip" (for buffaloes) are specifically designed for Indian breeds. These chips will enable early identification of high-quality bulls, significantly accelerating genetic improvement of herds.
The indigenous IVF technology will accelerate the process of genetic improvement in cattle, allowing results to be achieved in just one generation (about three years) instead of the traditional 21 years. This will increase cow productivity and accelerate the growth of the country’s dairy industry.
The livestock product tracking platform — created in partnership with GS1 India, will ensure transparency at all stages of dairy production and distribution.
These technologies will be an important milestone in modernizing Indian animal husbandry, helping farmers increase productivity, reduce costs, and strengthen the country’s food security.
Dairynews: Effective system forof genetic improvement offor animals
New Zealand has been developing a system for evaluating the breeding value of cattle for decades, taking into account local conditions and farmers' needs. Since the mid-20th century, breeding methods have been actively implemented, and in 1996, the Breeding Worth (BW) index was created — a key tool for evaluating dairy herds.
In recent years, the country has been actively using genomic technologies for early prediction of breeding value. However, according to IWG data, the pace of genetic improvement lags behind global leaders due to the complexity of integrating various evaluation systems and the lack of a unified approach to selection.
In response to these challenges, leading industry organizations DairyNZ, LIC, and CRV have joined forces to create a roadmap for improving the genetic improvement system. The steering group has already identified six key areas of work:
DairyNZ CEO Campbell Parker stated: "We are ready to work together to overcome current challenges and create a more productive, sustainable, and efficient dairy herd for future generations of farmers."
The steering group aims to create a transparent reporting system and establish interaction with all stakeholders to ensure maximum effect from the implemented changes.
Using local genomic selection, we implement advanced solutions that meet global standards and contribute to increased productivity in livestock farming. If you need additional information, please contact our specialists for assistance.
In recent years, the country has been actively using genomic technologies for early prediction of breeding value. However, according to IWG data, the pace of genetic improvement lags behind global leaders due to the complexity of integrating various evaluation systems and the lack of a unified approach to selection.
In response to these challenges, leading industry organizations DairyNZ, LIC, and CRV have joined forces to create a roadmap for improving the genetic improvement system. The steering group has already identified six key areas of work:
- Development of a National Breeding Objective
- Creation of a unified breeding value index
- Improvement in the volume and quality of phenotypic data collection
- Data audit and validation
- Engagement of international experts
- Enhancement of communication and dissemination of information about genetics and animal evaluation
DairyNZ CEO Campbell Parker stated: "We are ready to work together to overcome current challenges and create a more productive, sustainable, and efficient dairy herd for future generations of farmers."
The steering group aims to create a transparent reporting system and establish interaction with all stakeholders to ensure maximum effect from the implemented changes.
Using local genomic selection, we implement advanced solutions that meet global standards and contribute to increased productivity in livestock farming. If you need additional information, please contact our specialists for assistance.
Hoard's Dairyman: New opportunities for improving cattle genetics
Providing excellent conditions for animals is the key to their productivity. However, the initial genetic potential of animals can vary significantly depending on the herd genetics. Genomic data helps farmers make more informed decisions to improve their herd and increase profits.
California farmer Tony Lopez considers genomic tests "the best tool for predicting future productivity." He began using genomic tests in 2016 when faced with overproduction of calves. During their "discovery phase," they found that many identifications were incorrect, which was a revelation and allowed them to improve management.
Another farmer, Tim Baumgertner, who markets Jersey cow genetics, also values genomic testing. For him, accurate animal pedigrees became the key to success, and since 2009, his farm has been using genomic data to improve breeding work.
Genomic data helps identify both high-value and problematic areas in the herd. This allows farmers to more precisely select bulls to improve performance. Lopez, after several years of using the data, developed a "dairy beef" strategy, which brought the farm greater profits.
"Genomics for us is a powerful management tool," noted Baumgertner. "We've only begun to unlock the potential of DNA to increase cow profitability," he added. Genomic testing helps farmers make the right choices, increasing the productivity and profitability of their operations. This is confirmed by real results from farms worldwide. If you want more information, please contact our specialists for assistance.
California farmer Tony Lopez considers genomic tests "the best tool for predicting future productivity." He began using genomic tests in 2016 when faced with overproduction of calves. During their "discovery phase," they found that many identifications were incorrect, which was a revelation and allowed them to improve management.
Another farmer, Tim Baumgertner, who markets Jersey cow genetics, also values genomic testing. For him, accurate animal pedigrees became the key to success, and since 2009, his farm has been using genomic data to improve breeding work.
Genomic data helps identify both high-value and problematic areas in the herd. This allows farmers to more precisely select bulls to improve performance. Lopez, after several years of using the data, developed a "dairy beef" strategy, which brought the farm greater profits.
"Genomics for us is a powerful management tool," noted Baumgertner. "We've only begun to unlock the potential of DNA to increase cow profitability," he added. Genomic testing helps farmers make the right choices, increasing the productivity and profitability of their operations. This is confirmed by real results from farms worldwide. If you want more information, please contact our specialists for assistance.
POSTBULLETIN: In Iowa, cows are carrying rare cloned bantengs
In the American state of Iowa, eleven cows have been impregnated with embryos of cloned bantengs—a rare wild cattle species native to the islands of Southeast Asia. Their birth is expected this spring. The location of the pregnant cows is being kept secret for their safety. This unique project is being implemented jointly with the renowned San Diego Zoo and Advanced Cell Technology (ACT), a company specializing in biotechnology.
For cloning, scientists used DNA from a banteng that died in 1980. It was placed in a biobank that stores samples of endangered species. Scientists inserted this genetic material into cow eggs, replacing their own DNA. The embryos were then subjected to electrical stimulation, after which their development began. As a result, not hybrid individuals, but purebred bantengs should be born.
Bantengs are on the verge of extinction: fewer than 8,000 individuals remain in the wild, most of which live in small herds on the island of Java. Researchers hope that the cloned animals will help restore the population and prevent the species from disappearing.
The project continues a series of experiments on cloning endangered species. In 2001, a similar methodology was used to restore another rare wild bull—the gaur. However, the only surviving calf died two days after birth.
Cloning endangered species evokes mixed reactions. Proponents of the technology consider it a real opportunity to preserve genetic diversity and prevent animal extinction. However, animal protection organizations, including PETA, criticize the method for the high percentage of complications in newborns and believe that the main focus should be on preserving natural habitats.
If the experiment proves successful, the cloned bantengs will be transferred to the San Diego Zoo, which will manage their breeding.
For cloning, scientists used DNA from a banteng that died in 1980. It was placed in a biobank that stores samples of endangered species. Scientists inserted this genetic material into cow eggs, replacing their own DNA. The embryos were then subjected to electrical stimulation, after which their development began. As a result, not hybrid individuals, but purebred bantengs should be born.
Bantengs are on the verge of extinction: fewer than 8,000 individuals remain in the wild, most of which live in small herds on the island of Java. Researchers hope that the cloned animals will help restore the population and prevent the species from disappearing.
The project continues a series of experiments on cloning endangered species. In 2001, a similar methodology was used to restore another rare wild bull—the gaur. However, the only surviving calf died two days after birth.
Cloning endangered species evokes mixed reactions. Proponents of the technology consider it a real opportunity to preserve genetic diversity and prevent animal extinction. However, animal protection organizations, including PETA, criticize the method for the high percentage of complications in newborns and believe that the main focus should be on preserving natural habitats.
If the experiment proves successful, the cloned bantengs will be transferred to the San Diego Zoo, which will manage their breeding.
At Breedi, we specialize in genomic selection services designed specifically for livestock producers. Genomic selection is not just a trend—it's a proven, essential tool for accelerating genetic progress, improving herd health, and increasing profitability. Ready to see how genomic selection can transform your herd?
Contact us at hello@breedi.app to learn more about how we can help.
Contact us at hello@breedi.app to learn more about how we can help.