Visit University of Wisconsin, IPB University’s Premium Sheep Breeding Center Explores Omics Technology
IPB University’s premium sheep breeding center conducted a study to the Department of Animal Science, University of Wisconsin, United States (US) to explore Omics technology (10/17).
The visit was conducted by Prof Asep Gunawan, the inventor of IPB University’s premium sheep accompanied by Prof Sri Suharti, Vice Dean of Fapet IPB University for Resources, Cooperation, and Development.
Omics technology is a molecular genetic-based technology approach, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics. This technology is able to explore the genetic potential of livestock to produce superior livestock traits more efficiently and precisely.
“With this technology, we are optimistic that we can produce premium sheep that are not only superior at the national level, but also globally competitive,” he said.
According to him, this step is a new milestone in the development of modern animal science, bringing Indonesia towards independence and glory in the livestock industry.
During the visit, they had direct discussions with renowned experts, learned Omics technology in practice, and visited field laboratories and sheep breeding research centers.
In-depth discussions were held with experts in the field of Omics technology, including Prof Hasan Khatib (transcriptomics and epigenetics expert), Prof Guilherme Rosa (breeding data management expert), Prof Brian Kirkpatrick (genomic selection expert), and Prof Tom Crenshaw (nutrigenomics expert).
Dr Francisco Penagaricano (quantitative genetics expert), Dr Sofia Ortega (reproductive physiology and gene editing expert), Dr Hilario Mantovani (ruminant microbiologist), and Dr Mehmet Kizilasian (bioinformatics expert).
“This visit not only broadens our horizons, but also provides practical experience in the application of Omics technology in the management of livestock breeding centers and meat products,” said Prof Asep Gunawan.
During the visit, the IPB University team also visited a sheep breeding station in Arlington, Wisconsin. This research center manages 350 sheep of various breeds, such as Hampshire, Targhee, Polypay, Rambouillet, and Baroola-Rambouillet crossbreeds.
“Here, Omics technology is applied to produce a new generation of Polypay sheep with high productivity advantages, such as twin births, fast growth, and low mortality rates,” said Prof Asep.
The Professor of IPB University in the field of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Faculty of Animal Science (Fapet) explained that an integrated maintenance system is carried out to ensure the quality of seeds and meat products. Starting from birth management, child care, to monitoring weaning weight.
“The University of Wisconsin also has a research centre for downstream meat products, ensuring that research results can be utilized for the commercialization of quality livestock products,” he said.
The experience and knowledge gained from this visit, he said, will be an important basis for Fapet IPB University in adopting Omics technology in the premium sheep breeding center.
“This step is expected to produce superior seeds and high-quality lamb products with an efficient management system,” said the Chairman of the Indonesian Association of Animal Science (HILPI).
The visit, he said, also reactivated cooperation between IPB University and the University of Wisconsin through staff exchange programs, student mobility, and research collaboration. He emphasized that IPB University continues to strengthen its position as a pioneer of innovation in the field of livestock that is globally competitive.
“Fapet IPB University is committed to presenting a new breakthrough in the world of animal science through the development of a premium sheep breeding center with national and global standards,” he added.
One of the strategic steps is to adopt Omics technology, a molecular-based approach that allows the selection of superior seeds and improvement of the quality of livestock products more efficiently and precisely. (*/Rz) (IAAS/RUM)
