Category Archives: Genetics

Move Over, Genghis Khan. Many Other Men Left Huge Genetic Legacies – Smithsonian Magazine

June 27, 2024 medical

Earthwork Portrait of Genghis Khan Christophe Boisvieux/Corbis

Since a 2003 study found evidence that Genghis Khans DNA was present in about 16 million men alive at the time, the Mongolian rulers genetic prowess has stood as an unparalleled accomplishment. But he isnt the only man whose reproductive activities still show a significant genetic impact centuries later. A 2015 study published in the European Journal of Human Genetics found that a handful of other men had prolific lineages, too.

To identify those lineages, the geneticists analyzed the Y chromosomes of more than 5,000 men from 127 populations spanning Asia, wrote Nature News Ewen Callaway in 2015. The Y chromosome is a part of the human genome handed down only from father to son. They found 11 Y-chromosome sequences that were each shared by more than 20 of the analyzed subjects. Chalk down one of those as Genghis Khans, and that leaves ten other men who initiated long-lived and widely spread family trees.

When he ruled during the 13th century, Genghis Khan presided over land that spanned from the Pacific coast of China to the Caspian Sea. Historians dont know exactly how many children Genghis Khan sired, but many agree his lineage is broad. In 1260, Persian historian Ata-Malik Juvaini wrote: Of the issue of the race and lineage of Chingiz [Genghis] Khan, there are now living in the comfort of wealth and affluence more than 20,000.

Mongol rulers such as Genghis Khan could have spread their genes widely, because of rapes during conquests and because the khans had access to many women in the areas they ruled, Oxford University geneticist Chris Tyler-Smith told Nicholas Wade of the New York Times in 2003.

Genghis Khans sons may have followed in their fathers footsteps and had large harems. Tushi, the emperors oldest son, had 40 sons himself, per the New York Times.

So, who were the other super-fertile fathers? One genetic sequence is attributed to Giocangga, the grandfather of the founder of the Qing dynasty. His Y chromosome was linked in a 2005 study to 1.5 million men in modern northern China. This large number likely resulted from his descendants taking many wives and concubines.

The other nine men are currently mysteries. Yet, by assuming they lived in the area where their genomes were most commonly found and by studying mutations in the genetic sequences, scientists suggest they originated throughout Asia between 2100 B.C.E. and 700 C.E., per Nature News.

According to Nature News, the founders who lived at the earlier end of this range, between 2100 B.C.E and 300 B.C.E., were part of both agricultural and nomadic cultures. They lived during the emergence of hierarchical, authoritarian societies in Asia. And the three lineages connected to more recent times, including those linked to Genghis Khan and Giocangga, were associated with nomadic peoples in Mongolia and northeast China.

Large genetic legacies are not confined to that part of the globe. According to a 2006 study in the American Journal of Human Genetics, 1 in 12 Irishmen worldwide can trace their heritage back to a single individual. That man may be a fifth-century Irish warlord dubbed Niall of the Nine Hostages, who could have as many as three million direct male descendants in modern times.

Genetic studies published in the last few years have continued to reveal more information about the heritage of peoples around the world. From uncovering the genetic history of the Viking age to confirming the origins of the Swahili people and pinpointing Neanderthal genes in modern populations, techniques analyzing ancient DNA have opened another window to understanding how genes flowed in the past.

As far as the nine unknown founders with impressive genetic lineages, more research is needed to discern their identities. But one thing is certain: Genghis Khan has never been the only big kid on the genetic block.

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Genetics

3X4 Genetics Selected as Partner for Preeminent Cancer Research and Treatment Nonprofit, The Metabolic Terrain … – BioSpace

June 27, 2024 medical

The genetics-based health tech company will serve as the organization's screening test for patients, ensuring the most targeted interventions possible for cancer treatment, recovery, and prevention

BELLEVUE, Wash., June 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- 3X4 Genetics, leader in the field of genetics-based health, announced today a partnership with The Metabolic Terrain Institute of Health (MTIH) to serve as the innovative nonprofit's genetics provider. Founded in 2020, MTIH has been commanding the shift in cancer research and treatment from traditional approaches to exploring metabolic pathways, thereby considering cancer a metabolic disease.

At the forefront of the emerging fields of nutrigenetics and personalized health, 3X4 Genetics' translation of genetic results is perfectly aligned with MTIH protocols. Instead of looking at individual genes in isolation, the 3X4 test uses a systems biology framework to analyze how genes work together in the body to impact overall health. By integrating gene testing into the metabolic approach to cancer, MTIH creates an even more personalized care experience that tailors treatments to each patient's unique genetic makeup and significantly enhances outcomes.

"So many of us have been affected by cancer in some way, and we all seek answers to the same questions: why did it happen, what could we have done to prevent it, and how could we have managed the cancer better," says Dr. Yael Joffe, RD (SA), PhD, FACN, Founder and Chief Science Officer of 3X4 Genetics. "MTIH has found these answers, and it is a great honor to work with an organization that addresses the root causes of cancer and focuses on reversing the disease process. We look forward to growing together, learning more about cancer, the role genes play, and how together we can impact many lives."

In addition to genetic testing and reporting, 3X4 Genetics will also provide targeted education and mentorship for MTIH's vast network of clinicians to deepen their understanding of how genetics offers unique insights into their patients' journey.

"After working with various genetics companies over the years, we at the Metabolic Terrain Institute of Health are thrilled to be working with 3X4 Genetics to take our clinical care to the next level. This collaboration perfectly aligns with our commitment to precision health through our motto: "Test, Assess, Address, Don't Guess." said Dr. Nasha Winters, ND, FABNO, Executive Director and Co-Founder of MTIH. "3X4 is revolutionizing the field with their cutting-edge testing, providing crucial information that is essential for our Metabolic Terrain-trained practitioners and advocates."

In addition to supplying MTIH and other healthcare organizations with tests, 3X4 Genetics provides a community of over 4,200 practitioners in all 50 states with the training and resources to grow their practice and transform more lives. To learn more about 3X4 Genetics, visit http://www.3X4genetics.com.

About 3X4 Genetics 3X4 Genetics is a venture backed genetics-based foundational health company that combines advanced genetic testing, nutrigenomic education and a global network of accredited practitioners to help people listen to their bodies and make sound, daily choices to live longer, healthier and better lives. 3X4 Genetics is headquartered in Bellevue, WA. For more information, please visit http://www.3X4genetics.com.

About the Metabolic Terrain Institute of Health The Metabolic Terrain Institute of Health is a 501(c)(3) organization based in Tucson, Arizona, and the organization's mission is to restore health for people with cancer and other metabolic diseases through research, education, advocacy, collaboration, and healing. For more information, visit mtih.org.

Media Contact: Power Digital Marketing 3x4genetics@powerdigital.com

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Genetics

NIFA Invests $6M in Animal Breeding, Genetics and Genomics | NIFA – National Institute of Food and Agriculture

June 27, 2024 medical

The Animal Breeding, Genetics, and Genomics program area priority (A1201) within NIFAs Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) supports research on the development of novel quantitative genetic methods; national and regional breeding strategies; new phenotypes for improving selection criteria and/or high-throughput methods for on-farm recording of traits; and alternatives to control inbreeding. This NIFA program supports research that can be basic, applied, or both.

List of Awardees:

Link:
NIFA Invests $6M in Animal Breeding, Genetics and Genomics | NIFA - National Institute of Food and Agriculture

Genetics

Arbel Harpak: Pursuing the Next Frontier in Genetics | Dell Medical School – Dell Medical School

June 27, 2024 medical

Sex is a key factor in evolution, health and disease. But we know little about how sex differences come to be even as they are stark, such as in the higher incidence of autism spectrum disorder for men or autoimmune disease for women. Supported by the Pew scholarship, Harpaks lab will pursue new directions for understanding how biological sex matters in genetics and evolution.

My group studies how genetic variation evolves: how it arises through molecular processes and how it is later shaped by natural selection. We are also interested in the upshot of this process how genetic variation maps into trait variation, which has an impact on things like disease susceptibility, behavior and fitness.

Answers to these questions have been proposed for centuries. However, the incredible scope of data gathered over the last two decades revolutionized what can be learned from genetic variation and has inspired new questions. Work in the lab involves mathematical modeling and genomic data science.

Thanks to the Pew scholarship, the group will develop new models for the drivers of sex differences and scour large databases to test predictions of these models. This work could improve our ability to predict sex-specific genetic risk of disease and advance our understanding of the role of sex in evolution.

My masters was probably the first time I started to seriously think about a career in research, mostly thanks to Guy Sella, who made the introduction to population genetics extremely exciting. My Ph.D. advisor at Stanford, Jonathan Pritchard, shaped me as a scientist and has been a role model for me.

Following my Ph.D., I spent three enriching years as a Simons Foundation fellow and a postdoc at Columbia University working with Molly Przeworsky. I cant quite put into words how invaluable her mentorship has been (and still is) for me. She set the bar incredibly high in terms of rigor, braveness, honesty and collegiality. She also gave invaluable support during years that have been personally difficult.

Arbel Harpak, Ph.D.

As I began planning my own lab, reflections about my mentorship experiences translated into my own goals as a group leader. I realized that the greatest impact I could have on the field would be through facilitating, supporting, advising and mentoring future generations.

Honors like the Pew scholarship are ultimately the result of the enthusiasm and dedication of the students and postdocs Ive been lucky to have work in the lab. My second favorite part of the job is when trainees persevere through challenges and come up at the other end with innovative solutions and answers; my absolute favorite part is when they come up with good questions.

I grew up in Israel. My family moved around quite a bit but always kept a stones throw away from the beaches of the Mediterranean Sea, where I spent a lot of my time. I was very much into math and into wildlife from a young age but hadnt really thought of being an academic; no one in my family was, and playing outdoors (Did I mention the beach yet?) filled up most of my schedule nicely.

After saving up money to go to school, I started my bachelor studies in mathematics and philosophy at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and later on added physics to the mix. I deeply enjoyed my math studies. I never knew and probably never would have known without my math education how it feels to deeply and fundamentally understand ones object of study. This feeling was, and continues to be, a source of true joy for me.

Excerpt from:
Arbel Harpak: Pursuing the Next Frontier in Genetics | Dell Medical School - Dell Medical School

Genetics

Coffee habits are partly linked to genetics, UC San Diego researchers say – NBC San Diego

June 27, 2024 medical

L.L. Bean has just added a third shift at its factory in Brunswick, Maine, in an attempt to keep up with demand for its iconic boot.

Orders have quadrupled in the past few years as the boots have become more popular among a younger, more urban crowd.

The company says it saw the trend coming and tried to prepare, but orders outpaced projections. They expect to sell 450,000 pairs of boots in 2014.

People hoping to have the boots in time for Christmas are likely going to be disappointed. The bootsare back ordered through February and even March.

"I've been told it's a good problem to have but I"m disappointed that customers not getting what they want as quickly as they want," said Senior Manufacturing Manager Royce Haines.

Customers like, Mary Clifford, tried to order boots on line, but they were back ordered until January.

"I was very surprised this is what they are known for and at Christmas time you can't get them when you need them," said Clifford.

People who do have boots are trying to capitalize on the shortage and are selling them on Ebay at a much higher cost.

L.L. Bean says it has hired dozens of new boot makers, but it takes up to six months to train someone to make a boot.

The company has also spent a million dollars on new equipment to try and keep pace with demand.

Some customers are having luck at the retail stores. They have a separate inventory, and while sizes are limited, those stores have boots on the shelves.

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Coffee habits are partly linked to genetics, UC San Diego researchers say - NBC San Diego

Genetics

Advanced genetic tools help researchers ID new neurodevelopmental syndrome – Yale News

June 27, 2024 medical

In a recent study, a Yale-led research team described for the first time a rare neurodevelopmental syndrome that begins affecting patients during infancy, and typically causes developmental delays, severe seizures, cardiac dysrhythmia, and recurring infection.

After conducting a genetic analysis on 18 individuals with similar symptoms but for whom there was no established diagnosis and comparing the results with other findings, the research team, led by Yales Saquib Lakhani and Lauren Jeffries, was able to discern the genetic roots of what they determined was a syndrome shared by all of the patients.

According to their findings, published in the journal Genetics in Medicine, the newly defined syndrome now known as Jeffries-Lakhani Neurodevelopment Syndrome, or JELANS arises when patients have variants in a gene called CRELD1, which has known roles in the cardiac and immune systems but had never before been characterized in patients with neurodevelopmental symptoms.

It may be surprising to know that while over 7,000 rare genetic disorders are already defined, the majority of our 20,000 genes are still not well understood.

Lauren Jeffries

The discovery would not have been possible, researchers say, without next-generation DNA sequencing, a tool refined within the past decade that can rapidly sequence thousands of genes or even entire genomes.

The advancements in DNA sequencing have completely transformed how we approach patients, said Lakhani, clinical director of Yale School of Medicines Pediatric Genomics Discovery Program and senior author of the study.

With next-generation sequencing, researchers can uncover alterations in genes also known as variants shared by people around the world with similar symptoms. That allows them to draw connections that may have been missed when relying on symptoms alone.

In this case, and in a growing number of others, it means a disorder that had gone undiscovered is now named and defined, giving those affected by it much-needed answers and researchers a clearer route to treatment development.

Lakhani and Jeffries, an associate research scientist and medical geneticist with the Pediatric Genomics Discovery Program and lead author of the study, recently sat down with Yale News to discuss JELANS and the process of identifying a new syndrome, how the programs gene-centric approach to care yielded this discovery, and how it benefits families facing these rare disorders.

This interview has been edited and condensed.

Lauren Jeffries:It may be surprising to know that, even in 2024, while over 7,000 rare genetic disorders are already defined, the majority of our 20,000 genes are still not well understood. So, while comparing clinical notes across patients is still critical to our work, in the Pediatric Genomics Discovery Programwe utilize a gene-centric approach, meaning that instead of comparing symptoms, we look for genetic differences as our first step.

In this particular case, GeneDx a commercial lab headquartered in Connecticut that we collaborate with had genetically screened 10 patients who had compound heterozygous variants for theCRELD1gene. That means that the patients had two variants in this gene, one coming from their mom and one from their dad. GeneDx then asked if we wanted to look into this further. Most of the patients in our full cohort ended up sharing the exact same change, which was remarkably suspicious.

Knowing a syndrome name and the underlying genetic cause can be so powerful by bringing a sense of closure and relief to families.

Saquib Lakhani

Saquib Lakhani: In general, you need a certain number of patients and consistency in the characteristics of those patients. You also typically need basic science evidence which could be biochemical, cell system, or animal model testing that corroborates that the variation in the gene in question is associated with the condition in the patients youve identified, and that it causes some changes or abnormalities in the scientific testing. And ultimately you need to be able to get a paper describing the syndrome published, indicating that your peers have accepted the evidence defining the syndrome.

Jeffries: We worked with an incredible team of researchers to find 18 patients from 14 families in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., including one who we cared for in our pediatric ICU here at Yale. When no established diagnoses were identified for them, their genetic data was analyzed under the research lens. From this deeper analysis of genetic data, the CRELD1 gene emerged as the candidate to study.

We also looked through their clinical data to see what patterns might exist. All of the patients had low muscle tone at birth. In the majority of cases, epilepsy developed by around five months of age, and all patients had seizures at some point in time. Cardiac dysrhythmias and recurrent infections were also common, and we noticed that several patients had shared facial features such as large-appearing eyes.

Lakhani: We then studied the gene in frogs. We first wanted to see what happened when we removed the gene, because that can give us a clue as to what the gene is important for. When we fully knocked out the gene, the frog embryos did not survive. But when the gene was partially knocked out, we found that there were a lot of developmental defects in these frogs. Interestingly, surviving tadpoles with the gene significantly knocked out were more susceptible to developing seizures. That showed us that CRELD1 is important for the development of the embryo overall and that if its limited in function, it can also increase the susceptibility to seizures.

However, these patients arent missing CRELD1, they have variations in it: letter changes in the gene that result in changes to the CRELD1 protein but do not cause the protein to completely disappear. When we tested the patient forms of the protein in tadpoles, we found that they did not function the same way as the normal form of CRELD1. Taken together, the clinical and basic science data provides solid evidence that JELANS is a new syndrome caused by variants in the CRELD1 gene.

Jeffries: As more patients are identified to have JELANS, I think well further refine the clinical syndrome and begin to uncover the molecular mechanisms underlying the symptoms. For instance, well get a better sense of whether the immune system is affected, leading to the increased risk of infection, and how common cardiac dysrhythmias are and whats the underlying cause.

Lakhani: The families of children with undiagnosed diseases frequently go through wandering medical diagnostic odysseys doctor after doctor, test after test without ever reaching an answer. Parents can go their entire lives wondering what happened to their child, whether their other children can get the disease, whether they did something to cause it. Knowing a syndrome name and the underlying genetic cause can be so powerful by bringing a sense of closure and relief to families.

We now have a tool that allows us to see if theres a genetic explanation for a childs condition. We no longer have to just do the best we can with limited information.

Saquib Lakhani

Jeffries: Its validating. Its clarifying. With a syndrome name, families can find a community and move forward. Especially for rare disorders, in syndrome support groups families can share their stories, discuss what treatments have worked and what treatments havent, and just talk to other parents who understand.

Lakhani: And in some countries, it can be hard to get resources without a specific diagnosis. With a diagnosis, families may qualify for support services, so it can have practical implications even beyond the knowledge.

Jeffries: Understanding this syndrome at the molecular level is essential for the ultimate goal of finding treatment thats targeted and specific to this disorder and that is meaningful in helping patients thrive.

Lakhani: Everyone who cares for patients should be thinking about this. For many years, as physicians we would look at certain patients and say, Theyve got something underlying. But we could never put our finger on it because we didnt have a robust way to test broadly for genetic conditions; we had to just do the best we could. But we now have a tool that allows us to see if theres a genetic explanation for a childs condition. We no longer have to just do the best we can with limited information. We can actually try to find answers. Its something that has had an incredible impact and its something we regularly encourage others to pursue.

Jeffries: And while the discovery of JELANS was through a research endeavor, we want to be clear that DNA sequencing is not just for uncovering new syndromes. Genetic testing can be ordered by a doctor and is available for patients with all sorts of descriptive diagnoses, such as autism, intellectual disability, epilepsy, and cerebral palsy, where symptoms determine the diagnosis.

A patients genes may reveal a more specific diagnosis than any constellation of symptoms can define; understanding the molecular cause can ultimately give patients clearer answers and, hopefully, more targeted treatments.

More here:
Advanced genetic tools help researchers ID new neurodevelopmental syndrome - Yale News

Genetics

Nutritious diet may protect against type 2 diabetes, regardless of genetics – News-Medical.Net

June 27, 2024 medical

A healthy diet that adheres to nutrition recommendations is associated with better blood glucose levels and a lower risk of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes, a new study from the University of Eastern Finland shows. This association was observed also in individuals with a high genetic predisposition to type 2 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes is a strongly genetic disease that can be prevented and delayed with a healthy lifestyle, such as diet and exercise.

However, we havent really known whether a healthy diet is equally beneficial to all, i.e., to those with a low genetic risk and to those with a high genetic risk.

Ulla Tolonen, Doctoral Researcher, University of Eastern Finland

The cross-sectional study examined food consumption and blood glucose levels in more than 1,500 middle-aged and elderly men participating in the broader Metabolic Syndrome in Men Study, METSIM. Food consumption was measured using a food frequency questionnaire, and blood glucose levels were measured using a two-hour glucose tolerance test. In addition, study participants genetic risk of type 2 diabetes was scored based on 76 genetic variants associated with type 2 diabetes risk.

The researchers identified two dietary patterns based on food consumption. A dietary pattern termed as healthy included, among other things, vegetables, berries, fruits, vegetable oils, fish, poultry, potatoes, unsweetened and low-fat yogurt, low-fat cheese and whole grain products, such as porridge, pasta and rice. This diet was associated with, e.g., lower blood glucose levels and a lower risk of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes.

The study also explored the effect of the genetic risk of type 2 diabetes on the associations with diet and glucose metabolism. The associations of a healthy diet with better glucose metabolism seemed to hold true for individuals with both a low and a high genetic risk of diabetes.

"Our findings suggest that a healthy diet seems to benefit everyone, regardless of their genetic risk," Tolonen concludes.

The findings were published inEuropean Journal of Nutrition.

Source:

Journal reference:

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Nutritious diet may protect against type 2 diabetes, regardless of genetics - News-Medical.Net

Genetics

Genome-wide association study identifies host genetic variants influencing oral microbiota diversity and metabolic … – Nature.com

June 27, 2024 medical

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Genome-wide association study identifies host genetic variants influencing oral microbiota diversity and metabolic ... - Nature.com

Genetics

Unlock the Secrets of Your DNA with Advanced Genetic Testing – North Forty News

June 27, 2024 medical

Photo by RODNAE Productions from Pexels

The field of testing has made progress in recent times, transforming our understanding of our bodies and well-being. These advancements have empowered individuals to delve into the details hidden within their genetic code, enabling them to make informed choices regarding their health. In this guest contribution, we will delve into the rising trend of testing and its ability to offer valuable insights.

Not long ago, genetic testing was a sophisticated and expensive process mainly utilized in academic circles and by those with financial means. However, rapid advancements in technology have opened doors to cost-effective options. Specialized companies focusing on testing have emerged, providing individuals with direct access to their genetic data. To know more, click here: https://myriad.com/.

A key benefit of testing lies in its capacity to unveil potential health vulnerabilities encoded in an individuals DNA. By examining genes associated with illnesses like cancer, diabetes, or heart conditions, these tests can pinpoint whether an individual carries a risk compared to those lacking such gene variations.

Equipped with this information, individuals have the opportunity to collaborate proactively with healthcare providers to create treatment plans that focus on preventing diseases or intervening early if needed. Utilizing the information gathered from testing, healthcare professionals can customize approaches explicitly tailored to each patients requirements. This targeted method improves the effectiveness of treatments while reducing reactions and unnecessary procedures.

In addition to identifying predispositions for diseases, advanced genetic testing provides insights into optimizing fitness and nutrition routines. These tests reveal how individuals may react differently to various exercise regimens or dietary plans by analyzing genes for factors such as metabolism or nutrient absorption.

Advanced genetic testing can offer reassurance for couples contemplating starting a family and worried about conditions in their family history. These tests can pinpoint risks and help make informed decisions regarding family planning and potential interventions to safeguard the health of future offspring.

Furthermore, knowledge of an individuals composition enables the prediction of age-related conditions or chronic illnesses. With this information, individuals can seek advice from healthcare professionals to devise strategies.

While genetic testing is a tool, addressing concerns about privacy related to using genetic data is crucial. Individuals must conduct research. Carefully choose a reputable company that values data security and follows strict guidelines regarding using and sharing genetic information.

Ethical issues arise when dealing with testing. Companies providing these services must ensure the validity and transparency of their methods, safeguarding consumers from unverified assertions. Service providers and consumers need to take action and understand the ramifications, including potential implications for health or life insurance policies based on genetic test findings.

While advanced genetic testing offers potential, it is essential to acknowledge its limitations. Genetic testing cannot precisely predict the future. Instead, it provides insights into an individuals predispositions without guaranteeing disease outcomes. Recognizing that genetic factors interact with lifestyle factors underscores the significance of an approach to well-being.

Furthermore, research and evolving knowledge in genetics shape our understanding of genetic test results over time as scientists uncover more about our genes and their implications. Hence, its vital for people to keep themselves informed and seek guidance from healthcare experts specializing in genetics.

To sum up, recent advancements in testing have allowed everyday individuals to explore hidden insights within their DNA. Embracing this technology provides benefits, such as lowering health risks through treatment plans, optimizing fitness routines, and even planning for fertility.

Nevertheless, its essential for consumers to approach these tests carefully by selecting companies that prioritize privacy regulations and uphold standards throughout their processes. As we progress into this era, increased accessibility and use will unlock more opportunities as we continue unraveling our distinct genetic codes.

By cautiously yet enthusiastically embracing these innovations, we set forth on a path toward a future driven by the analysis of genomic data for all individuals seeking answers from within themselves.

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Unlock the Secrets of Your DNA with Advanced Genetic Testing - North Forty News

Genetics

Modern and precise: Using gene editing to change the blueprint of an organism – Beef Magazine

June 27, 2024 medical

Gene editing is the use of modern molecular technology to precisely change the DNA sequence of an organism. And the key words here are modern and precisely, said Dr. Jon Beever from the University of Tennessee during his presentation titled Biotechnology 101: A practical guide to gene editing and vaccinology at the Beef Improvement Federation (BIF) Symposium June 10 in Knoxville, Tennessee.

The methodology used to edit an organisms genome in this precise manner involves the use of nucleases including Zinc finger nucleases, Transcription activator-like effector nucleases [TALENs], or CRISPR-Cas9 systems. All three tools facilitate a double-stranded break at a precise location in the DNA sequence. Gene editing leverages the cells own DNA repair machinery to generate either a non-homology directed repair, which often results in a disruption in the gene and its function, or a homology directed repair which allows for correction or insertion in the gene of interest. This methodology works in both somatic and gametic cell types.

Beever shared examples of gene edits in livestock, to date, including Myostatin edits in sheep and cattle using TALEN technology. Myostatin suppresses muscle development and thus, disruption of this gene generates more heavily muscled animals. In 2016, Shanthalingam leveraged gene editing technology to generate Mannheimia haemolytica leukotoxin-resistant cattle. More recently, the SLICK gene variant, which naturally occurs in Senepol cattle, has been edited in several breeds of cattle to increase their thermotolerance. Another example of using this technology to address disease resistance includes disruption of the CD163 gene in pigs to generate pigs that are resistant to Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS).

There are obvious animal health and animal welfare concerns that can be addressed using gene editing technology. Similarly, mRNA vaccines offer advantages that can increase animal health and welfare. There are thousands of information and educational resources online about mRNA vaccines in livestock available. Half of these are ridiculous claims about being mRNA free, Beever explained.

We vaccinate because pathogenic organisms cause loss through disease and death in our cattle, Beever said. The vaccines that we administer stimulate an immune response to specific antigens. This immune response leads to the production of antibodies that protect our cattle.

Traditional vaccines that contain live attenuated virus or killed bacteria or viruses contain the antigen (proteins) themselves. The mRNA vaccines contain the genetic code, or roadmap, such that the immunized body can create the protein itself. The generated protein or antigen sits on the cell surface and the body raises an immune response and creates protective antibodies.

The advantage of mRNA vaccines is that they are faster to produce and to customize as the virus mutates. Because of this, we can protect ourselves, and our cattle, more effectively, Beever summarized.

To learn more about the molecular genetics driving gene editing and mRNA vaccines, watch Dr. Beevers full presentation at https://youtu.be/swvhXXjFxgs. To learn more about the Beef

Improvement Federation, or watch other presentations from the 2024 Symposium, visit BIFSymposium.com.