DNA Marker technology
AWI funded research in conjunction with Meat and Livestock Australia is currently developing DNA based tests for parentage and performance traits as well as ways of integrating this information into current breeding systems.
AWI and Meat and Livestock Australia have made significant progress in identifying the DNA markers that allow breeding the most productive Merino sheep.
However, in order to make best use of the returns from this research, we must deliver information to Australian woolgrowers in a practical, widely accessible, and cost effective form.
DNA marker technology will allow breeders to make sheep breeding decisions based on accurate, objective information that is also compatible with traditional sheep breeding systems.
This technology allows selection decisions to be made as early as birth and is particularly advantageous for traits that are:
- Difficult to measure (e.g. parasite resistance)
- Expensive to measure (e.g. staple strength)
- Require slaughter (e.g. eating quality)
- Measured late in life or are sex limited (e.g. reproduction)
Existing DNA Parentage Technology
This is an area heavily dependent on technology and expertise - the cost and capability of which is rapidly changing - and there is a long history of wool industry investment in this science, including an AWI funded parentage panel.
Uptake of the technology to date has been modest, and accuracy and cost appear to be significant impediments to its adoption thus far. However, a number of parentage panels are now commercially available and range in price from approximately $15-20 per animal.
Standards for DNA Parentage
In consultation with expert scientists and testing businesses, AWI is in the process of developing a set of standards to which DNA parentage tests must achieve before the pedigree information can be included in the Sheep Genetics database.
Lower Cost, More Accurate DNA Parentage Testing
AWI investigating methods to reduce sheep DNA parentage testing costs and improve test accuracy.
One such project is the development of a DNA parentage panel that is more accurate and at the same or lower cost to existing technology.
Longer term, it is critical that AWI and its partners keep abreast of the rapidly changing DNA technology to ensure delivery of results are as accurate and cost effective as possible.
DNA Markers for Performance Traits
Multiple DNA markers have been discovered for muscling traits and are currently being validated in industry flocks prior to commercial release.
Work is also underway to refine the chromosomal locations of DNA markers for a number of traits of significant importance including: worm resistance, staple strength and pigmentation. These are likely to be ready for industry validation within the next 18 months.
Resources
Contact
Dr Graham Cam
Project Manager Molecular Genetics
Tel: +61 2 8295 3100
Contact via email
Related websites
AWI grower networks
Find out about AWI's community-based network groups in each state.