Digitalis Ventures’ Post

Last week, the European Symposium on Poultry Genetics took place in Gdańsk 🇵🇱. The event gathered academia and industry to discuss advances in poultry breeding and genetics. This symposium serves as a key platform to exchange knowledge, showcase research progress, and explore innovation for a more sustainable and efficient poultry sector. The GEroNIMO project participated, sharing multiple insights from the project’s work – including presentations on: • “Deciphering GxE interactions with omics approaches” by Tatiana Zerjal • “Leveraging local breeds and landscape genomics to detect adaptive genes” and “The use of genetic resources in breeding programs: Why, what and how” by Gwendal RESTOUX EAAP - European Federation of Animal Science | INRAE | AgroSup Dijon | IRTA | Kmetijski inštitut Slovenije | Uppsala University | Københavns Universitet - University of Copenhagen | University of Hohenheim | University of Bern | Università degli Studi di Firenze | Utrecht University | University of Zagreb / Sveučilište u Zagrebu | Wageningen University & Research | IFIP - Institut du porc | Novogene | Topigs Norsvin | SYSAAF | EFFAB - European Forum of Farm Animal Breeders | FEUGA. Fundación Universidad-Empresa Gallega | FACULDADE DE MEDICINA VETERINÁRIA - ULISBOA | University of Évora

🔬 Exploring the Power of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) in Livestock Improvement. In recent years, Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) have revolutionized animal breeding and genetic improvement programs. These technologies not only enhance reproductive efficiency but also help in rapid genetic gain, disease control, and the conservation of valuable breeds. Techniques like Artificial Insemination (AI), Embryo Transfer (ET), In Vitro Fertilization (IVF), Cryopreservation, and Sexed Semen Technology are playing a vital role in producing healthier, more productive, and genetically superior animals. By combining ARTs with molecular and genomic tools, researchers can now address challenges related to fertility, climate resilience, and sustainable livestock production. These technologies are shaping the future of animal reproduction — ensuring food security and promoting sustainable animal agriculture. 🐄🌱 #AnimalReproduction #LivestockScience #ART #Genetics #SustainableAgriculture #AnimalHusbandry #Research #IVF #AI

Animal Genetics Market Set for Explosive Growth: Projected to Reach USD 15.4 Billion by 2035, Driven by Precision Breeding and Genomic Technologies https://lnkd.in/eT22gZK8 #marketanalysis #marketresearch #marketresearchreports #businessintelligence

Pioneering animal health biotechnology company BiomEdit, Inc., in partnership with Bioversity International USA and Yale University, announced it has been selected as one of 15 global teams awarded funding of nearly $2 million from the Bezos Earth Fund’s AI for Climate and Nature Grand Challenge. The funding will support development of the Rumen Digital Twin, an artificial intelligence (AI) foundation model designed to identify the most effective strategies for reducing methane emissions in cattle while also optimizing animal productivity and welfare. More: https://lnkd.in/dKSZJnpS

"Genomic tools like whole-genome scans and genomic selection provide unprecedented precision in predicting disease resistance potential in aquaculture populations." Modern genomic methods allow the identification of key resistance genes and accelerate selective breeding efforts. Instead of relying only on visible traits, genomic prediction uses thousands of markers to enhance accuracy. This dramatically shortens breeding cycles and strengthens aquaculture’s ability to meet disease challenges with scientifically informed strategies. Learn about genomic innovations in aquaculture health on The Aquaculture Podcast Show, with expert-driven discussions. Stay updated, subscribe now! https://lnkd.in/dpyWmc2v

🧬 Assessing genomic sharing between full siblings in cattle and sheep A #H2020INTAQT study examined how much of the segregating genome is shared between full-sibling cattle and sheep. Using over 90,000 SNPs from thousands of animals, researchers estimated genomic relationships and their variability. 🐄🐑 What they found: ✔️On average, full siblings shared approximately 50% of their segregating genome (as expected) ✔️But variation exists — with a standard deviation of 0.040 in cattle and 0.037 in sheep ✔️Parental inbreeding and genetic relatedness influence these values 📊 These insights refine how genetic relationships are modelled in breeding evaluations, improving accuracy in selection and prediction. ➡️ Read the full article: https://buff.ly/z2Bb0Xv #AnimalGenetics #LivestockBreeding #Genomics

𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝟵𝟬% 𝗼𝗳 𝗮𝗻𝗶𝗺𝗮𝗹 𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗱𝗿𝘂𝗴𝘀 𝗳𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗶𝗻 𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘀. 𝗧𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗶𝘀𝗻’𝘁 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀, 𝗶𝘁’𝘀 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗱𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲. As a scientist, it’s disheartening to see how many people still believe animal testing is “necessary” for human health. The truth is that 90–95% of animal-tested drugs fail in humans. That’s not progress, that’s a system stuck in the past. Millions of animals live and die in labs every year for results that don’t translate to real medical breakthroughs. They suffer needlessly, while new, accurate, human-based methods already exist. Organoids. Organs-on-chips. AI-driven simulations. These aren’t dreams, they’re real, validated technologies being used right now. Science is meant to evolve and compassion is part of that evolution. 💡 Read my latest blog: Scientist Speaks Out About Animal Testing: Why Compassionate, Human-Based Science Is the Future 🔗 https://lnkd.in/eAuY98Gi

🧬 From DNA to Diagnosis: How Omics Is Transforming Animal Health The future of animal health is written in data but the story starts in the barnyard. Omics technologies are revolutionizing how we understand, diagnose, and improve animal health. From genomic selection in livestock to microbiome profiling in pets, the industry is shifting from treatment to prediction. Here’s what’s happening 👇 Antler Bio is using epigenomics to boost milk yields by decoding how environment and stress affect gene expression. Hendrix Genetics and Topigs Norsvin are building breeding programs powered by genomic selection and AI-driven prediction. VETGENOMICS SL applies sequencing and bioinformatics to detect pathogens faster than ever. PathoSense turns complex metagenomics into real-time diagnostic insights. CEVA SANTE ANIMALE launched its Biogenovac lab - a genomics hub creating next-gen vaccines. Eurofins Genomics , SYNLAB International, and Laboklin - Labor für klinische Diagnostik GmbH & Co. KG are expanding molecular testing and sequencing capabilities. MOOVET DXC and Agrolabo Spa blend molecular diagnostics with applied field solutions. RANDOX LABORATORIES LIMITED, Gemini Genetics, and Roslin Institute push the boundaries of molecular diagnostics and genetic research. Hendrix Genetics, and Microomics Systems S.L. are connecting genomics with nutrition and sustainability. The big picture? 🔬 Faster diagnostics. 🐄 Healthier livestock. 🐕 Smarter, data-driven breeding. 🌍 And a surge in demand for people who can bridge biology, data and business. I’m seeing more companies searching for: Commercial leaders with molecular or diagnostic know-how Technical vets ready for commercial or strategic roles Scientists moving into business development & partnerships 💬 Whether you’re building teams or exploring new roles in this fast-evolving space, I’d love to connect and discuss the people driving omics revolution. #AnimalHealth #Genomics #Omics #Diagnostics #Microbiome #VeterinaryScience #AgTech #Biotech #Recruitment #LifeSciences

ARTIGOS EM REVISTAS COM ARBITRAGEM CIENTÍFICA - INIAV Editorial: Exploring ‘omic' biomarkers in animal production and reproduction Introduction Animal reproduction and breeding are advancing at an unprecedented pace, closely aligned with technological innovation. While the field has historically relied on phenotypic selection to improve traits of interest, the emergence of high-throughput “omics” technologies (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) is opening new possibilities for understanding the molecular basis of productivity, fertility, health, and welfare (1–5). Omics, especially when integrated with Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs), enable the identification of precise biomarkers that can guide selection, diagnosis, and intervention strategies. The present Research Topic brings together recent advances aimed at uncovering and applying molecular indicators to enhance reproductive efficiency and overall performance in diverse animal production systems. The diversity of species represented, from dairy goats and sheep to cattle, buffalo and avians (such as hens and geese), underscores the global relevance and adaptability of these tools. Collectively, the featured studies reflect an international effort to harness molecular insights for a more efficient, resilient, and sustainable livestock production. Pedro M. Aponte, Miguel A. Gutiérrez-Reinoso, Manuel García-Herreros (#INIAV) O artigo encontra-se disponível no seguinte link: https://lnkd.in/dsQN8u3y #INIAV #artigo #investigação

Excited to share our latest review paper publication in Springer - Molecular Biology Reports (IF - 2.8)! 📖 As a co-author, I’m proud to be part of this comprehensive work that delves into the Y-chromosome — a pivotal component of male-specific inheritance and reproductive function in domestic animals. The paper presents an extensive overview of Y-chromosome diversity, structure and evolution across major livestock species, highlighting its relevance in lineage tracing, fertility and genetic improvement. By integrating insights from advances in sequencing technologies and molecular markers such as Y-STRs and Y-SNPs, this review emphasizes how understanding Y-chromosome architecture can aid in developing targeted and sustainable animal breeding strategies. Grateful to my guide Dr. Manjit Panigrahi sir and team Genome Analysis Lab at ICAR - Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) for their guidance and support . Read the full article at https://lnkd.in/gUnjx3eJ #AnimalGenetics #LivestockBreeding #Genomics #Research #YChromosome #VeterinaryScience