Animal Health and Disease: The Role of Genetics

Certain animal populations are essential for humans as they provide a variety of products and services such as meat, milk, eggs, fiber and draught power. The genetic variation within animal populations is a major factor responsible for this diversity of function. Animal genetics plays a significant role in the development of animals in terms of animal health and disease. The traditional methods of animal selection and breeding were based on the phenotypic performance of animals. The application of omics technology can be potentially used to overcome the limitations of traditional breeding methods. There are several omics technologies such as genomics, metagenomics, metabolomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and translatomics with a broad range of applications in animal health and disease. These omics tools allow rapid and effective detection of subtle phenotypic changes, dietary responses, and innate phenotypic propensities in animals. This book traces the significant advancements in the role of genetics in maintaining animal health and controlling diseases. It will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers involved in this area of study.