A Steak in Genomics™

Happy DNA Day ! Today we celebrate the publishing of the double helix structure of DNA by Watson and Crick, but we also celebrate the genomic revolution which is upon us. The genome is the collection of all the DNA in your body , or in your livestock's body , or any other living organism for that matter. Richard Resnick gave a great TED talk about the genomic revolution. While the decline in the cost of sequencing has slowed , scientists, including those in agriculture, continue to push the genomic revolution forward. For those of you who worry this video is all about humans, steak is mentioned at 6:30 into the video and food production is mentioned at 7:00. The genomic revolution will continue to impact the way we produce and consume our food. Astute livestock producers will put their "typewriters" in the closet and embrace the "computers and Ethernet" of genomic technologies.

Tonya Amen from Angus Genetics Inc. discusses the weaned calf value, or $W, selection index. As breed associations continue to collect data and conduct research, they will calculate additional EPDs. It will become increasingly difficult for cattle producers to practice multiple trait selection as they are inundated with trait EPDs. Fortunately, this is were selection indexes come to the rescue. These combine multiple EPDs into one value, weighting each EPD by its economic importance.

Missouri producers interested in quality beef and genetic improvement can attend a nearby national meeting. But, they need to sign up before April 15th to get the early-bird rate. The Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) meets in Oklahoma City, June 12-15. It’s where researchers, producers and industry leaders meet to discuss discoveries in beef production. The theme is “Where Profit and Progress Intersect.” A major topic will be the crossbreeding vs. straight-breeding debate. New genetic tools are available that aid production of quality beef. Producers will hear various sides of all issues. MU beef reproduction specialist Dave Patterson will present results of research on breeding protocols. Those were developed and tested at the MU Thompson Farm, Spickard Missouri. It’s a chance to hear the latest in beef cattle breeding and genetics. The main program is June 13-14. Other events and ranch tours surround the meeting at the Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center in Oklahoma City....