ARS | Publication request: Integration of DNA marker information into breeding value predictions

Submitted to: Nebraska Beef Reports
Publication Type: Popular Publication
Publication Acceptance Date: August 28, 2010
Publication Date: October 3, 2011
Citation: Spangler, M.L., Kachman, S.D., Hanford, K.J., Thallman, M., Bennett, G., Snelling, W., Kuehn, L., Pollak, J. 2011. Integration of DNA marker information into breeding value predictions. Nebraska Beef Cattle Reports. MP94:11-12.

Interpretive Summary: Cattle breeders want to know how to incorporate new genomic technologies into their breeding programs. A collaboration of cattle breeders, scientists, and extension personnel attempted to use DNA markers in calves from seven breeds in 20 herds to learn about its application. These calves were genotyped with a few hundred DNA markers associated with weaning weight. The marker associations used were derived from about 2,500 experimental crossbred animals. The results from the current study suggest marker effects identified with current genotyping technology are not robust across breeds, but that methodology exists to integrate genomic information into the prediction of breeding values in a single breed context.

Technical Abstract: Calves from seven breeds including 20 herds were genotyped with a reduced DNA marker panel for weaning weight. The marker panel used was derived using USMARC Cycle VII animals. The results from the current study suggest marker effects are not robust across breeds and that methodology exists to integrate genomic information into the prediction of breeding values in a single breed context.