Assessment of genetic variation in meat quality and the evaluation of the role of candidate genes in beef characteristics

Objective

Selective breeding in cattle has been very successful in increasing the quantity of production, but up to now there has been little selection for product quality. Identification of the genes involved in aspects of meat quality and the programmes to enhance meat quality and to account for regional variations in preference. This project will define the variation in meat quality using standardised measurements, in and between breeds of cattle representing the spectrum of diversity found in Europe when reared under standardised management conditions. The genetic component of the variation in specific measures of meat quality will be identified, and the contribution of "candidate" genes and QTL to that variation tested using single nucleotide polymorphisms identified in the project as markers for alleles of the genes.

Programme(s)

• FP5-LIFE QUALITY - Specific Programme for research, technological development and demonstration on "Quality of life and management of living resources", 1998-2002

Topic(s)

• 1.1.1.-5. - Key action Sustainable Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

Funding Scheme

CSC - Cost-sharing contracts

Coordinator

ROSLIN INSTITUTE (EDINBURGH)

Address

EH25 9PS Roslin, Midlothian
United Kingdom

Participants (8)

DIPUTACION GENERAL DE ARAGON

Spain

Address

176,Montana 176
50080 Zaragoza

INSTITUT NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE AGRONOMIQUE

France

Address

Inra Theix
63122 Saint Genes Champanelle

ISTITUTO SPERIMENTALE PER LA ZOOTECNIA

Italy

Address

Via Salaria 31
00016 Monterotondo

THE ROYAL VETERINARY AND AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY

Denmark

Address

30,Rolighedsvej 30
1958 Frederisksberg

UNIVERSIDAD COMPLUTENSE DE MADRID

Spain

Address

Ciudad Universitaria S/n°
28040 Madrid

UNIVERSIDAD DE ZARAGOZA

Spain

Address

Miguel Servet 177
50013 Zaragoza

UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL

United Kingdom

Address

Churchill Building
BS40 5DU Bristol

UNIVERSITÀ DEGLI STUDI DELLA TUSCIA

Italy

Address

Via S. Camillo De Lellis
01100 Viterbo