Partner 11 - MTT Agrifood Research Finland (MTT)

MTT contributes and analyses 2 large fine-mapping populations:
1) dairy cattle: 24 Ayrshire families in a grand-daughter design with genome scan results for functional (including mastitis and fertility related traits) and production trait QTLs (WP5 and WP6), and
2) chicken: an F2-population of 2000 egg-layers (reciprocal cross between commercial lines) and additional intercross generations with records for egg shell strength and production traits (WP7).
In addition, MTT contributes (WP6) an Ayrshire nucleus herd for endometrium biopsies, embryo production and transfer and expression analyses to follow-up the factors affecting fertility in dairy cattle. MTT has been actively involved in international collaborations, including the EC-funded projects BovMap and EURIBDIS (Framework 4); and is presently co-ordinating the Framework 5 project MASTITIS RESISTANCE (QLK5-CT-2002-01186).
The molecular genetics team of Animal Breeding has been involved for the last ten years in the genetic mapping and dissection of quantitative and qualitative trait loci of economic importance. The results have led to practical applications and patent applications. The embryo research team has been involved for the last 6 years in the ASMO MOET scheme, including embryo sexing, QTL marker genotyping and quality evaluation by expression studies. In addition, oocyte quality has been monitored with SSH-microarray technology.

Involved in:
WP5
WP6
WP7

Key staff in SABRE:
Dr Johanna Vilkki MTT-SABRE Coordinator and involved in WP5
Dr Jaana Peippo - WP6
Dr Maria Tuiskula-Haavisto - WP7

Contact Details:
MTT Agrifood Research Finland
Animal Breeding / Animal Production Research
Building H
FT-31600 Jokioinen
Finland

Tel:  +358 3 41883669
Fax: +358 3 41883618

www.mtt.fi