TB-resistant cattle could be bred, study finds
Genetic traits linked to TB resistance were found in healthy cows.
Farmers may be able to breed cattle with increased resistance to bovine tuberculosis (bTB), scientists have discovered.
Led by the University of Edinburgh's Roslin Institute, the research compared the genetic codes of healthy and TB-infected female Holstein Friesians.
In the cows that remained unaffected by the disease, scientists identified a number of genetic signatures linked to TB resistance.
Researchers from the institute say the findings are significant, as they help to determine whether bTB control could be improved by selective breeding.
Lead researcher Professor Glass, said: “If we can choose animals with better genotypes for TB resistance, then we can apply this information in new breeding programmes alongside other control strategies. It is hoped that can help us to more effectively control TB in cattle.”
The disease is responsible for major economic losses worldwide, impacting both animal welfare and farm profitability. The University of Edinburgh says the effects of bTB cost the UK government £152 million from 2010 to 2011.
Published in the journal Heredity, this study builds on previous research by the institute that indicated genetic make-up could be linked to increased resistance to TB.
A further study will focus on refining the genomic predictors of resistance, for which the institute will collaborate with Scotland's Rural College and the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute.
The study is available online here.
With Strangles Awareness Week just around the corner (5-11 May), vets are being encouraged to share a survey about the disease with their horse-owning clients.
