Date of Graduation

8-2016

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Cell & Molecular Biology (PhD)

Degree Level

Graduate

Department

Cell & Molecular Biology

Advisor/Mentor

Rhoads, Douglas D.

Committee Member

Ivey, D. Mack

Second Committee Member

Rosenkrans, Charles F. Jr.

Third Committee Member

Anthony, Nicholas B.

Keywords

Biological sciences; Ascites syndrome; Broiler chickens; Genome-wide association studies

Abstract

Ascites syndrome in broiler chickens has developed into a source of economic loss in the last three decades. Intensive selective pressure, and implementation of flock management practices, has successfully reduced ascites frequency, but has not eliminated its occurrence. For this reason, it is imperative to better understand the genetic cause to ascites in broiler chickens. Previous studies of this magnitude have been attempted, but, thus far, a consensus of genomic associations have not been made. This collection of studies was aimed at identifying and interpreting genomic and genetic associations to ascites phenotype specific to a broiler line representative of a 1990s elite male line. A next generation sequencing technique, termed genome wide association studies, was initially implemented to identify chromosomal regions experiencing correlations with ascetic events in broilers. Individual loci were then evaluated for their impact on resistance and susceptibility, with particular interest in sex effects and parental genotypes. Finally, statistical models were evaluated for their potential use in predicting ascites incidence. Models represent a less time consuming and more cost effective method aimed at conserving genetic accuracy in selected breeding programs. Together, these studies represent gains in the current knowledge of ascites genetics and serve as a possible source for novel selective breeding practices in an industry setting.

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