Biparental haploid cells to generate genomically designed offspring

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

In natural selection, differential fitness relies on the chromosomal shuffling during meiosis that enables the production of haploid gametes that are genetically different. However, meiotic-induced genetic variability can be an economic burden to the animal breeding industry since offspring often do not inherit the most desirable genes from their parents. Although genomic markers are currently being used to identify superior offspring at birth or even sooner, animals or embryos are frequently culled for not inheriting the best genes from their parents. This project is aimed at eliminating meiotic uncertainty from cattle breeding programs by determining the genomic value of both parental gametes before fertilization. Oocyte and sperm-derived haploid cells will be produced and analyzed to identify those carrying a superior genome to generate offspring. The project proposal is divided into 3 objectives: (1) Optimize the production of genomically characterized bovine haploid parthenogenetic (oocyte-derived) embryonic cells for use in diploidizations; (2) Develop protocols to multiply embryonic cell lines for obtaining unlimited quantities of haploid cells for diploidization; (3) Use genomically characterized andro- and parthenogenetic haploid cells to derive diploid embryos and viable offspring with biparental predetermined genomes. The proposal is financially and scientifically supported by SEMEX, a major industrial player in cattle genetics in Canada and internationally. The ability to predetermine the genome of offspring derived from genetically superior parents will provide SEMEX with a unique technical platform to incorporate into their selection programs and provide a considerable competitive advantage worldwide. Moreover, state-of-the-art scientific and technical exchanges between a postdoctoral fellow, a PhD student and SEMEX's research team is expected to contribute significantly to training of HQP in areas in high demand for Canada.