The operating group that deals with the study of genetic abnormalities at the Department of Clinical Veterinary Sciences of the University of Bologna, with which ANABIC collaborates, operates based on the following outline:
Achieving these objectives will make it possible to aim to achieve the next objective:
It is clear that the latter phase is the most important one if undesired subjects are to be eliminated from the population.
Tests are currently available for identifying three genetic abnormalities: coat colour anomaly, which mainly concerns the Romagnola breed, and congenital pseudomyotonia and foetal icthyosis, which mainly concern the Chianina breed.
Anomalies in coat colour
Since 2003, the year in which a test for pinpointing carriers of anomalies in coat colour became available, all bulls currently operating in AI have been tested. We have also begun carrying out routine checks prior to importing all bull calves undergoing performance tests at the Genetic Centre, in order to prevent the introduction of carriers.
Congenital pseudomyotonia
In early 2008, a test was devised to identify carriers of congenital pseudomyotonia in the Chianina breed. Therefore, from June 2008, routine checks have been carried out prior to introducing Chianina calves into the Genetic Centre, as well as checks on all bulls for Artificial Insemination. When available, laboratory test results will be published in a special section of our website.
Fetal Icthyosis
Since January 2009 all calves are tested before their introduction to the genetic centre to avoid the entrance of carriers.
“Paunch calf” syndrome
From June 2011 all the animals selected for Performance Test are checked for this anomaly.
On the basis of the information acquired regarding the genetic lines that potentially carry the flaw and the availability of test results for identifying carriers, appropriate checks will be introduced in procedures for producing breeding plans aimed at reducing the allelic frequency in the population.
For any further information and clarification please contact our Technical Department.