1. Project Title:
Delineating Beta Casein Variants in Indian Cows and Potential Health Implications
of A1A2 Milk
2. Project Code:
NASF/ABA-5012/2015-16
3. Name of the Lead Institution:
National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR), Karnal
4. Names of the Partner Institutions:
National Dairy Research Institute, (NDRI), Karnal Karnal
Punjab University (PU), Chandigarh
5. Name & Designation of Principal Investigator:
Dr. Monika Sodhi, Principal Scientist
6. Name & Designation of the CCPI:
Dr Ashok K. Mohanty, Principal Scientist
Dr Rajat Sandhir, Professor
7. Duration of the project: July 2015 to June 2018
8. Objectives of the project:
 To ascertain allelic distribution of different β-CN variants in Indian native, exotic
and crossbred cattle populations. (NBAGR)
 To identify β-CN protein variants in milk from selected genotypes using high
resolution mass spectrometry. (NBAGR and NDRI)
 To establish experimental evidence for the cause and effect relationship of BCM-7
peptide, A1, A2 and A1A2 milk with disease progression in mice model. (PU,
NBAGR and NDRI)
9. Expected output:
 Comprehensive profiling of beta casein allelic variants in crossbred cows and native
cattle breeds adapted to different agroclimatic regions and production system.
 Information on allele specific expression in A1A2 hybrid genotype cows.
 Confirmation of perspective that Indian breeds are natural resource of A2 alleles
 Possible impact of beta casein genotypes on milk quality and quantity traits.
 A standardized protocol for the detection of A1A2 beta casein allelic variants in cow
milk.
 Development of MS based screening technique for identification of β-casein
variants in indigenous cows. Understanding mechanism of action of A1, A2, A1A2
milk and their peptides (BCM-7, 9) in producing deleterious health effects and
experimental validation of health issues associated with consumption of A1A2 milk.