Institute of Genetics

Research

At the Institute of Genetics, research is conducted into the molecular genetic causes of hereditary diseases and other inherited traits in domestic and farm animals:

Dog, Cat, Horse, Cattle, Sheep, Goat, Pig, South American Camelids, Rabbits, Chicken

We are building a biobank for future research projects. For this purpose, we collect samples from domestic and farm animals of all breeds.

Publications of previous studies. We also contribute to the international efforts to analyze the genomes of the dog, cat, horse, cattle, sheep and goat.

Selected projects

Unlocking the Genetics of South American Camelids

Alpacas and llamas show diverse fleece types and colors. The livestock genetics team, in collaboration with international partners, studies genome data to uncover genetic variants that drive inherited traits and rare diseases, such as deafness in blue-eyed white animals.

Contact: Anna Letko, Cord Drögemüller

Development of a genetic test for PRA in Saarloos wolfdogs

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is an inherited disease leading to complete blindness. Researchers at the Vetsuisse Faculty investigate the causal genetic defect to enable genetic testing and avoiding the breeding of further affected dogs.

Contact: Assami-Carina Perret, Tosso Leeb

Sustainable improvement of bovine health using genomic data

The Vetsuisse livestock genetics team is working with experts at Qualitas Zug and ETH Zurich to identify harmful gene variants and develop selection tools that will prevent inherited disorders and improve the health and welfare of Swiss cattle.

Contact: Joana Jacinto, Cord Drögemüller