Animal Genetics

Abstract

This subject presents an introduction on basic genetic principles (molecular and Mendelian genetics) and builds on these to introduce basic concepts of population and quantitative genetics that are used in breeding livestock populations (e.g. quantitative traits, heritability, genetic selection, inbreeding). This subject emphasises the application of elementary genetic theory to … For more content click the Read More button below.

This subject presents an introduction on basic genetic principles (molecular and Mendelian genetics) and builds on these to introduce basic concepts of population and quantitative genetics that are used in breeding livestock populations (e.g. quantitative traits, heritability, genetic selection, inbreeding). This subject emphasises the application of elementary genetic theory to genetic improvement of livestock. However these principles are also relevant to students interested in quantitative traits in companion, performance or wild animal populations.

Syllabus

Introduction to Genetics (brief introduction on DNA, flow of information inside the cell, gene structure and mutations);Chromosomal structure and organisation, cell division and gametogenesis;Inter- and intra-allelic relationship, Mendelian diseases;Patterns of inheritance and population genetics;Quantitative Genetics 1: inheritance of traits controlled by multiple genes - basic principles;Quantitative Genetics 2: response to … For more content click the Read More button below.

Introduction to Genetics (brief introduction on DNA, flow of information inside the cell, gene structure and mutations);
Chromosomal structure and organisation, cell division and gametogenesis;
Inter- and intra-allelic relationship, Mendelian diseases;
Patterns of inheritance and population genetics;
Quantitative Genetics 1: inheritance of traits controlled by multiple genes - basic principles;
Quantitative Genetics 2: response to selection, inbreeding and cross breeding;
Breeding values, Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (BLUP) and genetic correlation;
Multiple trait selection, selection index, breeding objectives, selection criteria;
Genetic markers, markers associated with selection, Genomic Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (GBLUP); and
Industry structures and breeding programmes in livestock production.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to identify and apply basic principles and concepts of DNA structure (and sequence), central dogma and chromosome structure including their significance in the context of health and disease;

be able to identify and apply principles and concepts associated with the interaction between genes and alleles, and how this results in the occurrence of commonly observed traits and diseases in animals;

be able to identify and apply principles underlying inheritance of genes in populations, and be able to apply these principles to predict the impact of breeding decisions on gene and genotype frequencies in populations;

be able to devise a practical breeding program for breeders of livestock or other animals;

be able to identify and discuss the important genetic decisions to be made in different breeding enterprises;

be able to use mathematical expressions which are common in quantitative genetics to predict the outcomes of particular approaches to genetic improvement; and

be able to summarise the industry structures commonly in place for the breeding of production animals and be able to provide informed advice to lay persons and scientists about the merits of particular genetic selection programs.

Assumed knowledge

BIO100 Concepts of Biology OR VSC113 Fundamentals of Veterinary Biology

Enrolment restrictions

Incompatible