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Angus breeders cooperation means test is near
"We no longer should have the mindset that these abnormalities aren't something we shouldn't pursue. We need to be proactive before they become bigger problems," said Dr. Jon Beever of the University of Illinois. By Jennifer Bremer  Cooperation from Angus breeders has allowed research of the genetic defect Arthrogryposis Multiplex to be near the commercialization phase for a test to identify the gene. Dr. Jon Beever, University of Illinois professor, discussed updates to the status of the AM test during the Nov. 15 annual meeting of the American Angus Association (AAA) at Louisville, Ky. "It is pertinent for breeders to assess the risk in their herd and make decisions accordingly," said Beever. "We no longer should have the mindset that these abnormalities aren't something we shouldn't pursue. We need to be proactive before they become bigger problems." It all starts with the breeders, and Beever acknowledged the cooperation of the AAA, scientists and producers who helped move so quickly.
"We came to a conclusion on finding these markers fairly fast because of the advancements in technology and finding the DNA markers. We have to have DNA samples on the affected animals in order for all this to work," Beever said. He stressed the importance of reporting affected calves and using proper sample collection and examination methods to come to a conclusion. "It's so important to properly collect samples. Each vendor of the test may use a bit different method or source, so be sure to check prior to collecting samples," Beever said. The expected availability of the commercial test is mid-December as it is rapidly moving through the university licensing process. Multiple vendors are interested in providing the service. It is important to know that they will have sufficient sample capacity to be able to handle the number of tests which may be sent to them before the release. Details on sample collection acceptance have to be worked out, as well. In the Illinois lab, blood and semen samples are used to run genetic defect tests, but other labs may accept other means of collection. Moving along so quickly in the development of a commercial test--only about four months--is due to major advancements in technology and the availability of positive samples, Beever said. "In some breeds it has taken up to two years to get enough DNA samples in order to define the correct markers for the abnormality," he said. "So we are doing great here." Beever also stressed for breeders to now use the testing tool knowing the possibilities available and what to do if a problem is found. "It's no longer necessary to cull because of pedigree. Now we can test for it and monitor a problem in the population. Carefully designed mating schemes can limit the impact while retaining quality genetics in your herd," he said. Management is the next key after testing. Beever said each producer will have to make decisions on how to manage their own herd. He believes it isn't necessary to test every animal but, instead, study pedigrees and then proceed with the testing. The lowest cost approach would be to use genetically AM-free sires. However, replacement females then become a problem and would need to be tested as cow pedigrees may be affected. The moderate cost approach would be to test sires, herd matriarchs and replacement heifers. The highest cost approach is for complete management with all animals in the herd being tested. Beever said no matter what approach is used, they all can be effective in preventing the continuation of the mutation. "The most important thing is for producers to know problems can be solved rapidly with the proper actions and the proactive approach," he said. "Breeding decisions can be made using the DNA-based technology available to prevent problems in the future." The AAA Board of Directors also made new policy during the meeting regarding AM carriers and registration of affected animals. A full report on those policies can be found at www.angus.org. Jennifer Bremer can be reached by phone at 515-833-2120 or by e-mail at jbremermaj@hotmail.com. 12/8/08 Date: 12/4/08
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