Question

The dairy sector is not well developed in Ghana. With your understanding of animal biotechnology, discuss how the sector can be improved using biotechnology taking into consideration any issues or concerns that might arise as a result of the implementation of such technologies.-5 pages

Answer 1

Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport, and Resources (DEDJTR) scientists use gene modification, molecular marker technology and genomics as research tools in the development of improved pastures for more efficient production, better quality and cleaner environment.

DEDJTR scientists have identified ryegrass genes encoding the key enzymes involved in the synthesis of lignin (a complex organic polymer that makes plant cell walls 'woody'). Scientists are now developing genetically modified grasses with improved herbage quality by altering the lignification of cell walls.

Genetic modification techniques are being used to reduce the production of pollen allergens in perennial ryegrass, potentially improving the quality of life for 1.8 million Australians who suffer from hayfever and seasonal asthma. This research is currently in the laboratory phase.

White clover is being genetically modified for resistance to alfalfa mosaic virus and to enable improved performance under drought conditions. This virus affects clover yield and causes an annual loss in Victorian milk production of $20 million. DEDJTR is currently undertaking small-scale field evaluation trials of genetically modified white clover. Pending regulatory approval, these improved genetically modified cultivars could be available within a decade.

DEDJTR scientists are also using state-of-the-art genomics technologies to identify key agronomy genes in native and exotic grasses and legumes. This program aims to improve pasture plant characteristics for the benefit of grazing industries.

Valuable traits in farm animals have been improved by selective breeding extending over hundreds of years. In the modern era the rate of livestock improvement has greatly benefited from advances in quantitative genetics and reproductive biology such as artificial insemination and embryo transfer. However, the annual genetic gain for desirable traits such as growth rate, health, leanness or milk yield in ruminants is generally under 2%, and since the generation interval in animals such as cattle is very long the result of technological improvements are only visible after a long period. Biotechnology has the potential to offer greater improvements, partly because modern techniques can help to shorten these intervals and partly because of the gain which can be achieved using the products of biotechnology. With a world population of over five thousand million people and an estimated doubling during the next forty years, new ways of enhanced food production need to be explored. The impact of new discoveries will be felt not only in developed economies because half the world's 1,2 thousand million cattle equivalents reside in Asia, Africa and the Indian sub-continent.

An example to produce milk of a given quality through the use of genes involved in the synthesis of milk proteins as a probe.

Bovinesomatotropin (BST) has no drawbacks either for the animals treated or for consumers of milk. BST helps to increase productivity and thus reduces production costs but it also helps to reduce pollution since fewer cows are needed for the same volume of milk produced.

Over a longer period, however, BST could have a significant influence on milk production and farm structure, if the new product were profitable which is not yet the case in all circumstances.