International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 334-343 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmz 337 to the genetic diversity of the population while still improving desired traits. Studies have shown that genomic selection can help in identifying and preserving genetic variants that are important for maintaining diversity, thereby preventing the loss of valuable genetic resources (Meuwissen et al., 2016; Abdelmanova et al., 2021). Additionally, the use of multi-trait prediction models that combine pedigree and genomic information can further enhance the ability to maintain genetic diversity while achieving breeding goals (Momen et al., 2017). Current practices in genomic selection for chicken breeding have demonstrated significant advancements in improving meat and egg production traits, incorporating disease resistance, and maintaining genetic diversity. The integration of high-density SNP panels and genomic data with traditional breeding methods has led to more accurate selection and faster genetic progress. As genomic technologies continue to evolve, the future prospects for GS in chicken breeding look promising, with potential for even greater improvements in efficiency and sustainability. 4 Key Technologies Supporting Genomic Selection 4.1 High-throughput genotyping and sequencing technologies High-throughput genotyping and sequencing technologies have revolutionized genomic selection in chicken breeding by enabling the efficient and cost-effective identification of genetic markers. The CornellGBS approach, for instance, has been optimized for chickens, allowing the successful genotyping of a large number of chickens at a cost of approximately $50 per sample. This method identified 134 528 SNPs, with 67 096 unique tags, demonstrating high performance in inferring SNPs, particularly in exonic regions and microchromosomes (Pértille et al., 2016). Additionally, high-throughput sequencing with preselection of markers has shown to be a viable alternative to SNP chips, improving the accuracy of genomic predictions in broilers (Liu et al., 2020). These technologies facilitate the large-scale application of genomic selection, enhancing the genetic improvement of economically important traits in poultry. 4.2 Computational tools and predictive models for genomic evaluations The implementation of genomic selection in poultry relies heavily on advanced computational tools and predictive models. Single-step genomic BLUP (ssGBLUP) is a prominent method that combines genomic and pedigree relationships to create an index with all sources of information, accommodating any combination of male and female genotypes and accounting for preselection biases (Misztal et al., 2020). This method is widely used in the chicken industry due to its simplicity and accuracy. Furthermore, the development of predictive models such as BayesC and the use of high-density SNP panels have significantly improved the accuracy of genomic predictions for complex traits in broilers. These computational advancements enable more precise estimation of breeding values, thereby accelerating genetic progress in chicken breeding programs. 4.3 Integration of phenotypic and genomic data The integration of phenotypic and genomic data is crucial for the effective application of genomic selection. By combining information from multiple genetic variants (genotypes) across the genome with trait information (phenotypes), breeding values can be predicted with greater accuracy. This approach allows for the identification of individuals with the best genetics to pass on to subsequent generations, thereby improving progeny performance (Fulton and Wolc, 2020). The use of genome-wide SNP screens to identify genomic regions under selection and key candidate genes further enhances the understanding of selection history and genomic diversity in chicken breeds, aiding in their productive breeding (Abdelmanova et al., 2021). The integration of these data types ensures a comprehensive evaluation of genetic potential, facilitating more informed selection decisions in poultry breeding programs. High-throughput genotyping and sequencing technologies, advanced computational tools, and the integration of phenotypic and genomic data are key technologies supporting genomic selection in chicken breeding. These innovations have significantly improved the accuracy and efficiency of genetic evaluations, enabling more precise selection of breeding stock and accelerating genetic progress in the poultry industry.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ4ODYzNA==