Pig joins the genome sequence hall of fame
Published: 02 November, 2009, 17:04
TAGS: Animals, SciTech, Biology
Domesticated pig joins cow, mouse, rat, horse, rabbit and a dozen other mammals including human, whose complete genome has been sequenced.
The finding is a result of an international collaboration, which lasted some 20 years and cost about $24.3 million.
The achievement was announced at a meeting at the Welcome Trust Sanger Institute in Hinxton, England.
A red-haired Duroc pig, one of the five major breeds used in agriculture today, was chosen for the project.
The complete genome map will enhance breeding practice and give insight into diseases affecting pigs and also humans, since we share with pigs some physiological traits and nutritional needs.
"We are excited to have the swine genome sequence and anticipate this will accelerate the rate of genetic improvement in swine as the bovine sequence is impacting the dairy industry's genetic gains," said Steve Kappes, deputy administrator of Animal Production and Protection for the USDA Agricultural Research Service.
It will also help better understand evolutionary process, since so many wild cousins of domesticated pig roam the world.
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