1.Quantitative genetic studies to identify markers of health
traits
- The rapid and sustained development of genome-enabled technologies of
the last few years provides extraordinary opportunities for advancing
this field of research. One of the first and most exciting options to
explore is the possibility of using dense single nucleotide
polymorphism (SNP) maps coupled with haplotype information.
- It is critical that dialogue is established or strengthened between
contributors with complementary expertise in animal health, animal
genetics/genomics and other relevant disciplines.
- Animal health experts should also be aware that opportunities to
record phenotypes may occur in populations that are not standard
commercial populations or well-characterized experimental lines. For
example, livestock exposed to extremes of environment or disease may
be a rich reservoir of traits and genes related to health issues
- Research into the identification of animals with superior ability to
withstand the immunosuppressive effects of stress may open new
opportunities.