Recessive genetic conditions are an inherent part of all species, including Wagyu.  Some conditions have been proven to be detrimental to economic production and so need to be managed carefully through DNA testing and the use of tools such as GeneProb to estimate carrier status.

The GeneProb analysis interrogates the pedigree of each animal and calculates the probability that the animal is a carrier for each genetic condition from the known DNA information of their relatives. For example, if an animal’s dam had been tested free of the genetic condition but the sire was a tested carrier, the animal would be reported as having a 50% chance of being a carrier.  

The gene probability analysis includes all known DNA information for animals recorded on the Australian Wagyu Association (AWA) database.  Genetic test results are based on samples provided by breeders.

In July 2012 it was discovered that the trial Wagyu GeneProb analysis was not effectively “solving” for 3 out of the 4 recognised recessive genetic conditions ie. B3, CHS, CL16 and F11. This was identified when the GeneProb software was upgraded to a new version with enhanced diagnostic capabilities.  The AWA, in conjunction with technical support from the ABRI, have recently resolved this issue with the GeneProb analysis now solving for all 4 recognised recessive genetic conditions for 99% of all AWA registered animals.. 

The Geneprob results are now live on the Wagyu Internet Solutions site and may be accessed through on the Database  Search/Animal Search facilities of the AWA website.  Using the Animal Search you can search and sort on the GeneProb results for each condition.  Individual herd results may be found in the Restricted Logon area using your own AWA Internet Account.  Members may contact AWA Registrar Barb O'Shea on (02) 6773 3342 to open an Internet Account.