Genomic selection (GS) is currently revolutionising cattle, pig, and poultry breeding world-wide and has the potential to do so in all agricultural species. The method is recognised as the key genetic improvement technology of the future, and will be crucial in meeting the global challenge to efficiently increase production of high quality agricultural products while improving animal welfare, reducing environmental impact, and maintaining biodiversity. So far, research in GS has been driven by a need for rapid industrial implementation resulting in a fragmented and species-specific research effort.
The strategic research centre GenSAP has gathered all relevant Danish breeding companies and research groups as well as world-leading international researchers to build the foundation for next generation genomic selection tools for genetic improvement schemes in agricultural plants and animals.
GenSAP develops GS methodology for the management, integration, and extraction of relevant information from the massive amounts of data emerging from whole genome sequencing, functional genomics, epigenomics, and complex phenotyping technologies. In addition, GenSAP generates advanced computational tools for optimising and evaluating selection decisions based on in silico data. In this way, GenSAP is building decision tools that ensure long-term sustainable implementation of GS. Consequently, next generation genomic selection tools will be efficient across species and environments, and will be both economically and genetically sustainable. GenSAP hopes to contribute to the foundation of a globally competitive and sustainable food production.
