KU KIBGE completes Red Sindhi cattle genome sequencing

KARACHI – The Dr A.Q.Khan Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (KIBGE) at the University of Kara-chi has completed the full genome sequencing of the country’s valuable indigenous cattle breed, “Red Sindhi Cattle.” This achievement is a significant scientific breakthrough for infection control, disease prevention, and improving livestock productivity. This project was completed under the Postdoctoral Fellowship Program Phase I of the Sindh Higher Education Commission. The research was carried out by Postdoctoral Fellow Dr Roohi Kanwal under the supervision of Professor Dr Saima Saleem, while Dr Nazir Hussain Kalohoro, Director of the Sindh Institute of Animal Health, also collaborated in this research project. Pakistan calls for deeper global cooperation to tackle climate crisis During the research, the complete genomic characteristics of the virus obtained from animals infected with Lumpy Skin Disease were also studied, which helped in deeply understanding the biological inter-actions between host and virus. This is the first successful attempt of its kind through which the complete genetic blueprint of Red Sin-dhi cattle has been compiled. According to Professor Dr Saima Saleem, it will open new research path-ways in modern breeding, disease resistance, and increasing milk and meat production. Scientists as-sociated with the project have termed this achievement a “revolutionary step” towards modernizing Pakistan’s livestock industry through genomic science. Upcoming budget should be truly people-friendly: Nawabzada Mansoor The Red Sindhi breed of cattle holds a key position in the rural economy across Sindh and the country due to its adaptation to harsh climatic conditions, high milk yield capacity, and natural resistance against local diseases. However, until now, limited genetic information has posed challenges in further improving their traits on modern scientific grounds. The research team analyzed the complete genome using Next Generation Sequencing technology, during which important genes related to milk production, heat tolerance, and immunity were identi-fied. According to experts, this information will enable more effective selection of animals with supe-rior traits and reduce reliance on traditional trial-and-error breeding methods. General polls to be held in AJK on July 27