Animal Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 119-129 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/amb 126 5 Ethical and Social Considerations 5.1 Ethical issues Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS) in livestock breeding raises several ethical concerns, primarily revolving around genetic manipulation and its implications. One significant ethical issue is the potential for reduced genetic diversity. As MAS focuses on selecting specific traits, there is a risk of narrowing the gene pool, which could make livestock populations more susceptible to diseases and environmental changes (Raina et al., 2020; Singh et al., 2022; Shepelev et al., 2023). Additionally, the manipulation of genetic material in animals raises questions about animal welfare and the naturalness of such interventions. The ethical debate extends to the potential long-term impacts on ecosystems and the balance of natural selection processes (Eze, 2019; Feng et al., 2020). Another ethical concern is the transparency and consent in the use of genetic technologies. Farmers and consumers may not be fully informed about the genetic modifications involved in MAS, leading to issues of trust and acceptance. The ethical principle of informed consent is crucial, especially when the technology is applied to food-producing animals (Osei et al., 2018; Raina et al., 2020). Furthermore, the ownership and patenting of genetic information and technologies can lead to ethical dilemmas regarding access and control over genetic resources (Vagndorf et al., 2018; Kumawat et al., 2020). 5.2 Social impact The social implications of MAS are multifaceted, affecting various scales of breeding operations and geographic contexts. On a small scale, MAS can provide significant benefits to individual farmers by improving livestock productivity and disease resistance, thereby enhancing their economic stability and food security (Collins et al., 2018; Singh et al., 2022; Shepelev et al., 2023). However, the high costs associated with MAS technologies may limit their accessibility to larger, more affluent breeding operations, potentially exacerbating inequalities between small-scale and large-scale farmers (Osei et al., 2018; Eze, 2019). Geographically, the impact of MAS can vary significantly. In developed regions, where technological infrastructure and financial resources are more readily available, MAS can be integrated into existing breeding programs more efficiently. Conversely, in developing regions, the adoption of MAS may face challenges due to limited resources, lack of technical expertise, and infrastructural constraints (Vagndorf et al., 2018; Kumawat et al., 2020). This disparity can lead to a widening gap in agricultural productivity and economic development between different regions (Raina et al., 2020; Feng et al., 2020). Moreover, the social acceptance of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) plays a crucial role in the implementation of MAS. Public perception and cultural attitudes towards genetic manipulation can influence the adoption and success of MAS technologies. In some cultures, there may be resistance to the use of genetic technologies in livestock breeding, which can hinder the widespread application of MAS (Osei et al., 2018; Hasan et al., 2021). Therefore, it is essential to engage with communities, provide education, and address concerns to ensure the ethical and socially responsible use of MAS in livestock breeding. 6 Discussion 6.1 Synthesis of findings Marker-assisted selection (MAS) has shown significant potential in improving livestock productivity and genetic diversity. The integration of MAS with traditional breeding methods has led to notable advancements in livestock genetics. For instance, the use of MAS in cattle and sheep has enhanced reproductive efficiency and genetic gain, particularly through the implementation of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) such as multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) and juvenile in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (JIVET) (Daly et al., 2020). Additionally, genomic selection has been instrumental in identifying and utilizing quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with economically important traits, thereby accelerating genetic improvement in livestock (Makanjuola et al., 2020; Raza et al., 2020). The application of genomic tools has also facilitated the conservation of genetic diversity in livestock breeds, ensuring sustainable animal production (Eusebi et al., 2019).
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