GENETIC IMPROVEMENT

General Module

Course Sheet

Academic Year of enrolment:

2021/2022

Type of Course:

Basic

Optional/Mandatory:

Compulsory

Degree:

5-year Single Cycle Master's Degree Programme in VETERINARY MEDICINE

Disciplinary Sector:

General Techniques for Zoology and Genetic Improvement

Is part of:

ZOOTECHNICS AND GENETIC IMPROVEMENT

Credits:

Programme Year:

Professor and Collaborators:

MURA Maria Consuelo

Obligatory attendance:

Yes

Hours of classroom activity:

Prerequisites:

Good knowledge of the basic genetics

AF code:

40000789

Teaching period

First semester

Objectives

The objectives of the Genetic Improvement unit are to provide knowledge about the morphological differences arising from the different selection plans. At the end of the course, the student will have acquired the molecular basis of genetic information, the heritability of traits, the main qualitative genes involved in the expression of phenotypic traits and the main quantitative genes involved in the different production performances. The skills that the student will have acquired at the end of the course will be the following: to evaluate the qualitative and quantitative aspects of the morphological characters; choose among the common molecular biology techniques the one most suitable for genotyping animals according to the main genes responsible for the traits being selected. Through the knowledge acquired and the skills achieved, the student will finally have the essential skills to understand the main differences in production traits with particular attention to the importance of safeguarding biodiversity; to recognize the traits that allow a subject to become a good reproducer; to apply intra-breed selection methods on the basis of specific aptitudes, assuming the responsibility of preserving breed’s health, limiting inbreeding, maintaining correct genetic variability and avoiding damage deriving from extreme selective pressure. DOC acquired: Correctly apply the principles of biosecurity (1.28); Demonstrate an ability of lifelong learning and a commitment to learning and professional development. This includes recording and reflecting on professional experience and taking measures to improve performance and competence (1.13).

Contents

Basic genetics: genes and chromosomes; the genome of animals of zootechnical interest, uses of coding and non-coding DNA in the zootechnical field; kinship testing, DNA fingerprinting; cytoplasmic inheritance (2h). Quantitative and qualitative characteristics; genetic and environmental variability; genetic polymorphism; allele and genotypic frequencies; heterosis and hybrid vigor; interaction between genes: additive genetic effects, modifier genes, epistatic genes, suppressor genes, lethal genes, sublethal genes (2h). Genetic evaluation of the reproducers, selection index, heritability, selection schemes (2h). Genetic tests: pedigree index, performance test, progeny test, sib test, animal model (2h). Feline genetics: genes involved in external characteristics; recognition and identification of hereditary diseases, elimination strategies from selected populations; systems of identification, importance and functions of the feline Pedigree (3h). Canine genetics: genetics of colors and external characteristics, major genes that act on phenotypic characters; the "genetic mistreatment", consequences of excessive selective drive and genetic isolation; identification of problems and strategies for reducing the incidence of genetic diseases; identification and pedigree systems (3h). Genetic improvement in the bovine species: selection in dairy and beef cattle: herd books, national, regional and provincial associations responsible for the control and collection of data, selective schemes and tools (2h). Genetic improvement in sheep: selection schemes and objectives in Sardinian sheep (2h). Genetic improvement in pigs: schemes and objectives for the selection of the butchery pig and the charcuterie pig (2h). Genetic improvement in the equine species: selection and improvement strategies of the sport horse. The meat horse: selection and improvement strategies, the example of CAITPR in Italy (2h).
The practical exercises include simulations of morphological and functional assessments on livestock (3h) and companion animals (3h); search in the database of information relating to breed standards, identification of subjects, structure and functions of the main National Breeders Associations (3h); 2h / student shifts in VTH aimed at breed recognition, coat identification, filling in individual forms for dogs and cats.

Recommended Bibliography

- DIALMA BALASINI: Zootecnica speciale, principali razze di animali domestici e tecniche di allevamento per le diverse produzioni. Edagricole.
- Giulio Pagnacco: Genetica Animale (Second Edition) Casa editrice Ambrosiana.
The slides and other teaching materials useful for the study and the insights, are made available to students on the e-learning University platform.

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GENETIC IMPROVEMENT