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Scientists sequence entire sheep genome
Sheep
Sheep are an important biomedical model.
Breakthrough could lead to further research and improved economy

A team of researchers from 26 institutions in eight different countries has completed the first sequencing of the entire sheep genome.

The collaboration was led by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and included scientists from China, the United States and the UK (University of Edinburgh’s Roslin Institute).

By comparing sheep’s genes with those of humans, cattle, goats and pigs, scientists were able to:

    •    Pinpoint genetic differences that make sheep different from other animals    
    •    Show that sheep have been a separate species from goats for 4 million years
    •    Identify the genes that give sheep their fleece
    •    Uncover the features of their digestive system that make them so well suited to a diet of low quality grass

Sheep are an important biomedical model, as well as a major source of meat, milk and wool products, and this accomplishment could lead to improvements in the rural economy as well as further biomedical research into a number of conditions in humans such as sepsis and asthma.
 
CSIRO project leader Dr Brian Dalrymple, said: “Given the importance of wool production, we focused on which genes were likely to be involved in producing wool. We identified a new pathway for the metabolism of lipid in sheep skin, which may play a role in both the development of wool and in the efficient production of wool grease (lanolin).”
 
Head of genetics and genomics at The Roslin Institute, Professor Alan Archibald, said: “Sheep were one of the first animals to be domesticated for farming and are still an important part of the global agricultural economy. Understanding more about their genetic make-up will help us to breed healthier and more productive flocks.”
 
The study has been published in the journal Science.

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RUMA CA&E extends survey deadline

News Story 1
 RUMA CA&E has extended the deadline for its online survey into vaccine availability.

Vets, SQPs, retailers and wholesalers will now have until Friday, 26 September at 5pm to submit their response.

The survey aims to further understanding into the vaccine supply challenges faced by the sector. It will also consider the short and long term impacts of disruption issues.

Insights are anonymous, and will be shared with industry stakeholders and government bodies.

The survey can be accessed here

Click here for more...
News Shorts
Dechra launches checklist for veterinary sustainability

Global animal health specialist Dechra has announced the world's first Veterinary Green Theatre Checklist (VGTC) to help make surgery more sustainable.

Endorsed by leading veterinary organisations, including the BEVA, BVNA and RCVS Knowledge, the checklist is designed to reduce the environmental footprint of veterinary care, while supporting better animal health outcomes.

The checklist was launched at the World Congress of Veterinary Anaesthesia and Analgesia in Paris and will be followed by an internal training and awareness campaign. For more information, visit dechra.com