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
