Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD) is a highly heritable disease in the neurological family. It is specifically a prion disease of cervids. The illness is influenced by more than one trait, it is caused by the accumulation of abnormal prion protein in the central nervous and lymphoid tissue.
Recent research has shown that CWD can be mitigated through selective genetic breeding. For example, the presence of the "S" alleles at codon 96, paired with the quantitative summation of genetic merit, correlates directly to CWD resistance.
Cutting-edge research in deer farming is paving the way for a revolutionary approach to combating CWD. Through selective breeding and genetic testing, deer breeders like P Bar Whitetails are now at the forefront of breeding CWD-resistant deer populations. This groundbreaking method not only offers a solution to the CWD crisis but also promises to enhance overall herd health and sustainability.
At the heart of this innovative approach is the work of Dr. Christopher Seabury, widely regarded as the world's leading researcher on CWD. Dr. Seabury's research has identified specific genetic markers in deer that correlate with CWD susceptibility or resistance. This discovery has opened the door to a new era in deer breeding.
Breeders select deer without the 'G' allele at codon 96, which is associated with higher CWD susceptibility, in favor of the protective 'S' allele.
The breeder must select deer with more negative genomically estimated breeding value (GEBV), which means they are more durable deer.
The breeder will breed deer that produce offspring that are more likely to inherit CWD-resistant traits. Dr. Seabury’s two-pronged approach offers a promising path forward in breeding deer that are more resilient and durable.
P Bar Whitetails has embraced this method of opportunity to enhance and improve Whitetail through genomic testing. We make the responsible and careful choice with each breeding to enhance what we have to offer and create opportunity for the future of deer farming.
Contact P Bar Whitetails to learn more.
The innovative approach P Bar Whitetails brings to deer breeding enhances the resistance to disease in Whitetail. This represents a pivotal moment in wildlife management and conservation.
By harnessing the power of genetic science, deer farmers and ranchers can protect their herds; and contribute to the long-term survival of one of America's most beloved wildlife species. As research continues and breeding programs evolve, the future looks increasingly bright for deer populations in Texas and the entire ecosystem they support.
For more information about Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), visit the Texas Deer Association website and become a member.
Using genetics and genomic improvement to reduce disease susceptibility will ultimately benefit Texas landowners and hunters while protecting our hunting heritage across the great state of Texas.
Secure the future of Texas deer hunting, deer breeding, and Whitetail improvement – Invest in genetics that are part of the growth of the deer breeding industry. We are proud to positively impact deer breeding programs and hunting ranches across Texas.
