In case you missed it, you can watch the DNA Q&A and discussion about the transition to SNP technology by clicking the thumbnail below ↓.
Transitioning to Advanced Genetic Analysis for Better Breeding Outcomes
Beginning February 1, 2025, all DNA testing will move to a Single-nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) analysis, commonly pronounced as “snip.”
The American Boer Goat Association has been in partnership with UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL) for 10 years. Since our contract began, UC Davis VGL has tested and stored data and physical samples for over 29,300 ABGA animals using Short Tandem Repeat (STR) testing.
To better serve our member’s breeding programs, the ABGA Board agreed to transition forward to a more comprehensive DNA analysis. SNP analysis represents a modern and advanced type of marker analysis widely utilized in today’s genetic industry and market, and UC Davis VGL has been an expert in SNP testing since the 1990s.
While the current STR testing is great for parentage testing, SNP testing offers many more benefits:
Genetic Improvement: SNP testing helps identify genetic markers associated with desirable traits such as milk production, growth rate, and disease resistance. This information can be used to select and breed goats with superior genetics.
Parentage Verification: It accurately determines the parentage of goats, which is crucial for maintaining pedigree records and ensuring the integrity of breeding programs. STR cannot differentiate between twins, or flush mates, while SNP can.
Disease Resistance: By identifying genetic variations linked to disease resistance, SNP testing can help in breeding goats that are more resilient to certain diseases, reducing the need for medical interventions.
Genetic Diversity: SNP testing provides insights into the genetic diversity within and between goat populations. This is important for conservation efforts and for maintaining a healthy gene pool.
Economic Benefits: Improved genetic selection can lead to higher productivity and better-quality products (e.g. meat), which can enhance the profitability of goat farming.
Research and Development: SNP data contributes to scientific research, helping to understand the genetic basis of various traits and improving breeding strategies.
Supporting Members Through SNP Transition: Cost Savings and Future Funding Initiatives
ABGA has allocated $100,000 for the transition from STR to SNP testing. To help reduce costs for our members, the DNA Committee is offering a $50 coupon to the first 2,000 members who apply. Each ABGA membership is limited to one $50 coupon, which must be used before July 1, 2025. Any leftover funds will be re-evaluated after this date.
Additionally, ABGA is seeking grant funding to subsidize a portion of the costs and pass the savings on to members. These grants may take 18 to 24 months to secure.
Closing Summary
The American Boer Goat Association’s transition to SNP DNA analysis marks a significant advancement in breeding and genetic research. This decision underscores ABGA's commitment to improving breeding outcomes through enhanced genetic insights, parentage verification, and identification of traits like disease resistance and productivity. By continuing its partnership with UC Davis VGL, ABGA ensures access to reliable testing, comprehensive data storage, and expert services while maintaining cost-efficiency for members.
This transition, backed by a $100,000 allocation, is set to empower breeders with modern genetic tools, fostering economic benefits and advancing the industry's genetic standards. By embracing SNP analysis, ABGA takes an exciting step into modern genetics, demonstrating our commitment to innovative breeding strategies and supporting the future of sustainable and profitable goat breeding practices.
