Issue 1 - 2016
NEWSLETTER
Sperm Sorters at the Nucleus
Phase one of Fast Genetics’ new technology introduction is well
underway. Since July 21, 2015, Fast Genetics has invested heavily
in human resources and technical training to accommodate the
introduction of sperm sorters. On January 8, 2016, Fast Genetics
installed its first sperm sorter in Northern Saskatchewan, in order
to best service its farms. The sorting process is highly accurate
and well proven. The combination of Fast Genetics’ investment in
scientific personnel as well as the installation of its new
technology will permit the successful implementation of sex
sorted sperm at the nucleus level. All Fast Genetics customers will
benefit from the introduction of sperm sorters at the nucleus level.
Specifically, sex sorted sperm and low dose semen technology at
the nucleus level will allow Fast Genetics to skew gender ratio,
accelerating genetic progress in all product lines.
Introducing sex sorted sperm throughout Fast Genetics’
multiplication is phase two of the new technology introduction
plan. The implementation at the multiplication level will allow for
an increase in product supply. In phase three, Fast Genetics plans
to implement sex sorted sperm at the commercial level. The
introduction at the commercial level will allow customers to skew
gender ratio based on many economic and management factors
including slaughter plant partnerships.
In summary, our new technology implementation is well
underway and will soon be utilized by our nucleus farms. Fast
Genetics is spending considerable time developing low sperm
dose protocols and proprietary catheters as well as many other
initiatives that will improve the overall Fast Genetics program.
Stay tuned for the first gender-skewed litters born in
Saskatchewan and more innovations!
Fast
enetics
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
Sperm Sorters at the Nucleus
PG. 1
Acquisition of Genomics
Laboratory
PG. 2 & 3
Doubling Down on FIRE
Feeders
PG. 4
Frekings Named MN Pork 2016
Family of the Year
PG. 4
Personnel Profile: Dr. Daniela
Grossi
PG. 4
Acquisition of Genomics Laboratory
Recently, Fast Genetics’ parent company, Sexing Technologies, acquired genomics laboratory Genetic
Visions from Accelerated Genetics. Genetic Visions was founded in 1988 and is headquartered in
Middleton, Wisconsin. Genetic Visions is a genotyping service provider. Sexing Technologies’ ownership
of Genetic Visions will allow Fast Genetics to significantly increase genomic testing. The benefits of
dramatically increasing genomic testing and evaluations, via Genetic Visions, are enormous for Fast
Genetics and its customers.
Before explaining the benefits of genotyping, let’s take a trip down memory lane to high school biology
(see Figure 1).
Figure 1
In most cells there is a nucleus, containing genetic information or the complete blueprint of the body.
The nucleus houses chromosomes (structures of DNA). DNA is a double-helix (like a twisted ladder)
comprised of nucleic acid pairings. The four nucleic acids, present on DNA, are cytosine, guanine,
adenine, and thymine. Cytosine pairs with guanine and adenine pairs with thymine (forming the rungs of
the ladder). Genes are certain sections of DNA that act as instructions to produce proteins with specific
biological functions.
Within the same species, the sequencing of nucleic acids is mostly the same. However, when these
sequences differ they are called Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) (see Figure 2). SNPs can be
responsible for differences in an animal’s observable characteristics (e.g. feed conversion). Using Figure 2
as an example, the SNP in Animal 1 may represent the norm for feed conversion, whereas the SNP in
Animal 2 may be associated with excellent feed conversion. Now that we have refreshed our memory,
let’s turn to why SNP information (gathered by genotyping) is so important and valuable.
PAGE 32
The genotyping process begins with a sample of blood,
tissue, semen, or any biological material containing cells
being sent to Genetic Visions. Once the sample is
received, DNA is extracted from cell nucleuses and
genotyped. The process of genotyping identifies the
SNPs. This information is then transferred to Fast
Genetics where it is analyzed by geneticists. Fast
Genetics evaluates tens of thousands of SNPs per animal
using proprietary genomic evaluations. The two main
purposes for genomic analysis include the use of
genomic EBVs for genomic selection and the detection
of abnormalities. The use of Genomic EBVs enables
accurate selection of young animals by using SNP
information to make accurate estimates of how progeny
will develop. This is done even before animals have
matured or have their own litters. The prediction of
genomic EBVs requires a large reference population in
order to link hundreds-of-thousands of SNPs with
performance characteristics. The best estimate of a
breeding value is obtained by using a combination of
SNP genotyping to predict an animal’s worth along with
its own actual records (phenotype). Although rare,
routinely testing SNPs for associations with
abnormalities enables Fast Genetics’ geneticists to take
the best course of action against such abnormalities.
Figure 2
Practically, both the creation of genomic EBVs for
genomic evaluations and the tracking of abnormalities
translate into significantly faster and more accurate rates
of genetic gain, creating better products for Fast
Genetics customers.
The acquisition of Genetic Visions will allow Fast Genetics to dramatically increase its genomic testing and
evaluations, a significant advantage as described by Shannon Meyers, Fast Genetics’ Chief Operating
Officer. “The use of genomic EBVs is a well proven method to accelerate genetic progress. Having our
own genotyping lab within our internal group of companies gives us one more tool to be at the forefront
of this technology and will make us industry leaders in this field.” Fast Genetics is excited about Sexing
Technologies’ acquisition of Genetic Visions, as it brings tremendous value to all Fast Genetics customers!
PAGE 3
4
Doubling Down on FIRE Feeders
Fast Genetics’ significant Feed Intake Recording Equipment (FIRE) feeder
infrastructure expansion is complete. FIRE feeders automate the measurement of
individual feed intake. The “doubling down” on proven technology such as FIRE
feeders will allow for faster genetic progress on feed conversion and growth rate.
Fast Genetics’ large investment in FIRE feeders was FAST, as it was planned and
implemented after the July, 2015 acquisition. Fast Genetics already had a significant
FIRE feeder program in both its maternal and terminal genetic nucleus systems, but
doubling down on FIRE feeder numbers allows for full finishing intake measurement
which further improves progress. The current and planned implementation of
technologies such as additional FIRE feeders is exciting as it will translate into
benefits for all Fast Genetics customers.
Frekings Named MN Pork 2016 Family of the Year
The Frekings, owners of New Fashion Pork and long-time Fast Genetics customer, were named the
2016 Family of the Year by the Minnesota Pork Board. The Frekings and New Fashion Pork, a
leading pork producer in Minnesota, Indiana, Illinois, South Dakota, and Wyoming, were
recognized not only for their success story, but also for their commitment to the communities
they serve. To read the Minnesota Pork Board’s full article on the Freking family, visit
http://goo.gl/VO4H5y. On behalf of everyone at Fast Genetics, congratulations to the Frekings
and New Fashion Pork on this award and recognition!
Personnel Profile: Dr. Daniela Grossi
Dr. Daniela Grossi was recently hired as Fast Genetics’ Molecular Geneticist. Dr.
Grossi obtained her D.V.M. and Ph.D. from Brazil. She was formerly a Post-Doctoral
Researcher at the University of Guelph and Statistical Geneticist with a genomics
laboratory. Her inclusion to the team couldn’t come at a better time, as Fast
Genetics’ parent company Sexing Technologies recently acquired Genetic Visions.
With a genomics laboratory owned by its internal group of companies, Fast Genetics
will significantly increase genomic testing. Dr. Grossi’s role will involve on all
research and development programs but will focus on molecular genetics and
genomic EBVs. Stay tuned for the Fast Genetics next Personnel Profile.
#2-2175 Airport Drive, Saskatoon, SK S7L 7E1
(306) 667-1420 www.fastgenetics.com
Fast
enetics