Impact of Marker Assisted Selection (MAS) on economy of production trait in animals: A review
Author(s): Ankita Verma, Shubham Parmar, Nency Patel and Mamta Janmeda
Abstract: Genetic markers are beyond phenotypic marker because they are free from environment effect and hence aid us to evaluate breeding value of an individual. By finding genetic markers associated with disease resistance, desirable traits (like high milk yield or lean meat), and preserving genetic diversity in endangered breeds, Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS) in animals improves breeding. Only just by selecting superior animals, the production traits can be improved as there is shift in population mean and hence, selection is considered powerful tool of a breeder. Genetic markers aid us to decipher true potential of an animal which is not measured phenotypically. Moreover, when the MAS is studied, there is always a question of its applicability at farmer level. Hence, this article is discussing in detail about MAS, its applications and limitations. Genetic markers are beyond phenotypic marker because they are free from environment effect and hence aid us to evaluate breeding value of an individual. Marker-assisted selection (MAS) in animals improves precision breeding by identifying genetic markers associated with disease resistance, economically significant traits (like high milk yield or lean meat production), and the preservation of genetic diversity in endangered breeds. Breeders can choose better animals based on their genetic potential using MAS, as opposed to traditional methods that only consider observable traits. This results in an increase in the population mean and better production traits over successive generations. Selection is therefore one of the most effective weapons a breeder can use. Furthermore, genetic markers assist in determining an animal's true genetic value, which may not be fully manifested phenotypically because of interactions with the environment. Notwithstanding its benefits, there are still concerns regarding the cost, accessibility, and technical viability of MAS's actual application at the farmer level. This article explores the fundamentals of MAS, the various ways it can be used in animal breeding, and the obstacles preventing its broad use in actual farming situations.
