Genomic selection, gene editing, and reproductive biotechnology: a triad for the improvement of native buffalo breeds in a developing country perspective like Pakistan

Abstract

Pakistan is the 2nd largest country in buffalo population in the world. The current population of buffalo in Pakistan is 45.0 million heads whereas the current world buffalo population is 200 million heads. Pakistan is home to one of the best buffalo breeds in the world i.e., Nili, Ravi, Nili-Ravi, Kundi, and Azi Khaili. Moreover, Pakistan is ranked 2nd largest buffalo-milk-producing country in the world. Keeping in consideration, the tremendous role and importance of buffalo, the current study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the important genetic studies conducted up till now and the need to apply the latest genomic tools, gene editing, and reproductive biotechnologies for the improvement of these native buffalo breeds. The current research is limited to a few diversity studies, basic phylogenetics, evolution, and genetic characterization using only a few loci and phenotypic studies of limited productive traits. The current picture is gloomy as proper genetic characterization and diversity study of these breeds has never been made using reliable, accurate, and advanced genomic techniques. In a developing country like Pakistan where there is no comprehensive data collection coupled with scattered farming without any organized breeding system; genomic selection, gene editing, and application of advanced reproductive biotechnology techniques are the most promising techniques for rapid and sustainable development in the productive and reproductive potential of our Black Gold. Advancement in the methods of genotyping using commercially available SNP Chips at affordable prices along with improvements in reproductive biotechnology and genome editing techniques will provide the framework for the true genetic exploration and optimal utilization of precious native buffalo breeds potential. Conclusively, these techniques have great potential to revolutionize the world's buffalo population.

Keywords: Buffalo; Gene Editing; Genomic Selection; Reproductive Biotechnology; SNP Chip.