The international project to map the genetic composition of the cow, estimated at $53 million and involving research bodies worldwide, is already providing advantages, even though it is only half completed.

Scientists from the New Zealand research consortium are already using information from the programme to help them identify genetic variants in cattle and in sheep, according to an AgResearch scientist, John McEwan.

A draft bovine genome assembly has already been published after completion of 40% of the planned sequencing. Leaders of the Bovine Genome Sequencing Project have announced it has been deposited into free public databases for use by biomedical and agricultural researchers from around the world.

Sequencing the bovine genome is expected to provide benefits to basic biology and create more efficient and profitable methods of meat and milk production. It will be used in agricultural research designed to improve cattle health and disease management and enhance the nutritional value of beef and dairy products. Researchers are currently comparing the bovine genome sequence with those of the human and other organisms that have already been sequenced.

The research began in December 2003. The Hereford breed of cattle was selected for the bulk of the sequencing project. Sequencing at lighter coverage will be carried out on additional cattle breeds, including the Holstein, Angus, Jersey, Limousin, Norwegian Red and Brahman.

Contributors to the project include the Human Genome Research Institute of the National Institutes of Health and the USDA in USA; Genome Canada; The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organization of Australia; Agritech Investments Ltd., Dairy Insight, Inc. and AgResearch Ltd., all three of New Zealand.

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