Defra release research into genomic technologies in animal production

FAnGR committee’s review of the impact of a UK-wide whole genome database linked to traceability on cattle production published 28th May 2021.

This recent report from Defra reveals how building a UK-wide genome database could significantly improve efficiency, environmental impact, health and welfare in cattle production. It also looks at how whole genome sequencing could improve conservation, and how the UK can take an internationally leading role in bringing benefits to animals, farmers and farming economies worldwide.

Genomic technologies are best defined as technologies used to manipulate and investigate genomic data. The 1970s saw the beginnings in earnest with the invention of DNA cloning and most of the technology stems from the latter part of the 20th century and continues to be developed.

Due to recent advances in genome technologies, low cost whole genome sequencing is now possible. When coupled with the increasing volume of agri-tech data, whole genome sequencing can bring advantages to precision breeding and livestock management.

The immense pressure to reduce the environmental impact and the routine use of antibiotics and health treatments in animal farming systems is growing. Indeed, a number of clear targets are now in place for the UK, such as net zero carbon by 2050, and for reducing antibiotics use. As a result, there is a continued and growing interest in exploring the appropriate use of new technologies to help find solutions within the farming industry.

The associated costs with genomic technologies are expected to continue to fall. However, by developing a suitable infrastructure and approach now, they may already be at a level where they could feasibly be considered for more routine use for species such as cattle, and in time for other livestock.

By developing and adopting precision approaches, both on-farms (precision agriculture) and further along supply-chains, it is expected that benefits such as substantial reductions in environmental impact, resource and antibiotic usage will be possible, while also improving resistance to pests and diseases, animal welfare and the overall efficiency of production.

This development of a UK-wide whole genome sequence database for livestock, linked to traceability and other effective data collection and collation systems, could play an important role in driving innovation of relevance to animal production, both in the UK and globally.

Through using such an approach, the potential benefits from using genomic information could be made much more accessible to a wide range of farmers and other stakeholders across livestock sectors, not just those actively engaged in producing or using performance-recorded breeding stock. A national database of animal genomes linked to other national databases will create a national asset that will have value for decades.

Read the full report on the government’s website, here.