International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 334-343 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmz 335 production (Neeteson et al., 2023). GS also holds potential for addressing complex traits that are difficult to improve through conventional breeding methods, such as disease resilience and welfare traits (Doran et al., 2017; Zhang and Chen, 2024). This study attempts to explore the current practices and future prospects of genomic selection in chicken breeding, discuss the challenges and limitations associated with its implementation, and provide an overview of the historical advancements, its impact on traits such as growth, feed efficiency, and disease resistance, and potential innovations to enhance breeding efficiency and sustainability. By synthesizing the latest research and developments, it aims to offer valuable insights for researchers, breeders, and policymakers involved in poultry breeding and genetic improvement programs. 2 Fundamentals of Genomic Selection in Chicken Breeding 2.1 The concept of genomic selection: principles and methodologies Genomic selection (GS) is a modern breeding technique that leverages high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) panels to predict the breeding values of animals based on their genomic information. This method was initially implemented in dairy cattle breeding and has since been adapted for use in poultry breeding. The core principle of GS involves the use of genome-wide markers to estimate the genetic potential of individuals, thereby enabling more accurate selection decisions at an earlier age compared to traditional methods (Wolc et al., 2016; VanRaden, 2020). The breeding value is calculated as the sum of the additive effects of alleles at all SNPs, which allows for the prediction of an individual's genetic merit for various traits (Fulton and Wolc, 2020). 2.2 Advances in genomics and bioinformatics enabling GS Recent advancements in genomics and bioinformatics have significantly enhanced the implementation of GS in chicken breeding. High-density SNP arrays and whole-genome sequencing (WGS) have become more accessible and cost-effective, providing detailed genetic information that can be used to improve the accuracy of breeding value predictions. Techniques such as single-step genomic BLUP (ssGBLUP) have simplified the integration of genomic and pedigree data, allowing for more efficient and accurate genetic evaluations (Misztal et al., 2020). Additionally, bioinformatics tools have enabled the identification of genomic regions under selection and the annotation of candidate genes associated with economically important traits, further refining the selection process (Abdelmanova et al., 2021; Mahdabi et al., 2021). 2.3 Comparison of GS with traditional selection methods Genomic selection offers several advantages over traditional selection methods. Traditional breeding relies heavily on phenotypic selection and pedigree information, which can be less accurate and slower due to longer generation intervals and the need for progeny testing (Wolc et al., 2016). In contrast, GS can significantly shorten generation intervals and increase the rate of genetic gain by allowing for the selection of young animals based on their genomic information (Momen et al., 2017). Moreover, GS can improve the accuracy of selection for traits with low heritability or those that are difficult to measure, such as disease resistance and reproductive traits (Gholami et al., 2015; VanRaden, 2020). However, it is important to note that while GS can enhance short-term genetic gains, it may also lead to a reduction in genetic diversity if not managed properly (Moeinizade et al., 2020). Genomic selection has revolutionized chicken breeding by providing a more precise and efficient method for selecting superior animals. Advances in genomics and bioinformatics have played a crucial role in enabling the widespread adoption of GS, offering significant improvements over traditional selection methods. However, careful management is required to balance short-term gains with long-term genetic diversity. 3 Current Practices in Genomic Selection for Chicken Breeding 3.1 Application in meat production traits (e.g., growth rate, feed efficiency) Genomic selection (GS) has been extensively applied to improve meat production traits in chickens, such as growth rate and feed efficiency. By utilizing high-density SNP panels, GS allows for the identification of genetic markers associated with desirable traits, leading to more accurate selection of breeding stock. For instance, studies
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