John WilliamsUniversity of Adelaide

Mission

“To: improve the quality of animals and in particular research relevant to cattle and especially to beef

producing animals”JS Davies Bequest to University of Adelaide

• Supporting the red meat industry by delivering:

….excellence in ruminant science

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Delivery through a network of capability

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From the DNA to the Customer

• Strengths of the Centre:– Diverse skill sets– Different perspectives– Drive and enthusiasm– Linking science with industry

• Resulting in– Comprehensive studies– More complete answers

• Delivering– High impact results– Appropriate applications

Improvement across the value chain

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Scientific discovery

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Genetics and epigenetics

Gene Editing vs GMO

• Genetic manipulation used to be uncontrolled– Effects were unpredictable– Techniques often used some DNA not

from the original species

• Gene Editing Techniques can introduce precise variations at very specific positions in the genome

• Transfer of natural varients among individuals of the same species– Could be done by breeding (5 generations)– Editing does it in one!

• BUT HOW ACCURATE IS GENE EDITING?

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Polled into Brahman

• Collaborative project

– Acceligen, gene editing know-how

– NT DPI, high fertility Brahman

• Goals

• Improving the technology

– Increased efficiency and accuracy

• Scientific information to inform the public debate

– accuracy, off target changes, animal biology

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Diet vs performance

• Feed quantity and quality affects:• Productivity

• Product quality

• Farm viability

• Health

• Fertility

• But feed today can affect: – The individual

– The fetus in utero

– The germ cells of the unborn baby….

• The ability to express genetic potential

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Digestion and digestive function

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• Implications of the first feed on animal “wellbeing” and performance– Microflora from mother– Colostrum quality

• Manipulation of microflora – To change fatty acid composition

• The microbiome affects:

– Digestion efficiency

– Immune function

– Product quality

– (emissions)

Strategic collaborations and interactions

• Livestock SA

– Agreement:

Joint funding of Blueprint Manager

• PIRSA – SARDI

– Head Agreement negotiation

• MLA Donor Company

– Head Agreement at point of signing

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Davies Research Centre: Official Launch 9th November 2016