Canadian swine industry to use molecular information to improve production
CANADA - The Canadian Centre for Swine Improvement (CCSI) has recently completed a research project on the use of molecular information for genetic improvement of pork production in Canada. Project results are expected to benefit Canadian as well as foreign buyers of Canadian pork in the future.
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This project, entitled “Development of new genetic evaluation and selection methods for
swine using advancements in molecular genetics“ was launched by the federal Minister
of Agriculture and Agri-Food in November, 2002. The project was funded by the
member organizations of CCSI and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Canadian
Adaptation and Rural Development (CARD) fund.
The research was carried out by Dr. Yuefu Liu and Dr. Pramod Mathur at CCSI. It was
peer-reviewed by a working group consisting of members from federal research labs,
universities, breeding companies and regional swine improvement centres in Atlantic
Canada, Ontario, Québec and Western Canada.
Recent advancements in molecular genetics have opened up several opportunities for
genetic improvements. However, a systematic assessment of their effectiveness and cost
benefits are required for the Canadian swine industry. This project evaluated the current
situation, identified most promising genes and markers, and developed genetic methods
and a strategic plan for use of molecular information by the swine industry.
The project identified a number of genes and markers that will help improve pork quality
and the efficiency in pork production. The IGF2 gene for uniform lean pork and HFABP
gene for good marbling and taste, are two promising examples. The project recommended
that frequencies and effects of the genes be further validated under Canadian conditions
prior to their widespread uses. New simplified models have been proposed for use of the
information in genetic evaluations, along with performance records.
The strategic plan outlines important activities and priorities for use of available genes.
The plan suggests continuing the search for new genes and markers, and preparing the
industry for future advancements. One of the key recommendations is to establish a
national DNA Bank for further research and use of molecular information by the
industry.
The Canadian Centre for Swine Improvement (CCSI) was created by the Canadian pork
industry to provide leadership, coordination and services for swine genetic improvement.
Its member organizations are the regional swine improvement centres in Western Canada,
Ontario, Québec and Atlantic Canada, the Canadian Pork Council and the Canadian Meat
Council, the Canadian Swine Breeders Association and.
Source: Canadian Centre for Swine Improvement Inc - 7th June 2004