Optimization of a crossing system using mate selection

• Published in: Genetics selection evolution (Paris) Vol. 38; no. 2; pp. 147 - 165
• Main Authors: LI, Yongjun, VAN DER WERF, Julius H. J, KINGHORN, Brian P
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English; German
• Published: Les Ulis EDP Sciences 24.02.2006; BioMed Central Ltd; BioMed Central; BMC
• Subjects: Alleles; Animal breeding; Animal genetics; Animal productions; Animals; Biological and medical sciences; Breeding - methods; Cattle - genetics; Classical genetics, quantitative genetics, hybrids; Computational biology; Crosses, Genetic; Female; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; Genetic aspects; Genetics; Genetics of eukaryotes. Biological and molecular evolution; Life Sciences; Male; Mate selection; Models, Genetic; optimal utilization; Population genetics, reproduction patterns; Quantitative trait loci; Quantitative Trait Loci - genetics; quantitative trait locus; Selection, Genetic; Terrestrial animal productions; two-way crossing system; Vertebrata; Vertebrates; Australia; China; Genetic selection; Operations research; Farming animal; Reproductive pattern; Use; Optimization method; Animal sciences; Artificial selection; Optimal utilization; Mate selection; Biomathematics; Outbreeding; Breeding scheme; Algorithm; Sire; Optimization; Quantitative genetics; Quantitative trait loci; Optimum; Mating system; Applied mathematics; quantitative trait locus; imal utilization / two-way crossing system / mate selection; Parental line; two-way crossing system; mate selection; optimal utilization
• ISSN: 0999-193X; 1297-9686; 1297-9686
• DOI: 10.1186/1297-9686-38-2-147

A simple model based on one single identified quantitative trait locus (QTL) in a two-way crossing system was used to demonstrate the power of mate selection algorithms as a natural means of opportunistic line development for optimization of crossbreeding programs over multiple generations. Mate selection automatically invokes divergent selection in two parental lines for an over-dominant QTL and increased frequency of the favorable allele toward fixation in the sire-line for a fully-dominant QTL. It was concluded that an optimal strategy of line development could be found by mate selection algorithms for a given set of parameters such as genetic model of QTL, breeding objective and initial frequency of the favorable allele in the base populations, etc. The same framework could be used in other scenarios, such as programs involving crossing to exploit breed effects and heterosis. In contrast to classical index selection, this approach to mate selection can optimize long-term responses.