STtalks #389 - The Impact of Slick Genetics from STgenetics
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In this episode of ST Talks, host Laura Demmer explores the groundbreaking SLIC program at ST Genetics, focusing on the integration of the 'slick' gene into Holstein cattle to enhance heat tolerance and productivity in tropical and hot climates. Experts Yuri Yutsanami, Kevin Zimba, and Sarah Westbury explain the genetic origins of the slick phenotype—first discovered in Creole cattle of the Caribbean—where a single DNA change in the prolactin receptor gene leads to a short, sleek coat that improves thermoregulation. Through crossbreeding and backcrossing, the slick gene has been introgressed into Holsteins over decades, with recent advances enabling homozygous slick animals and improved genetic merit. Kevin emphasizes the economic and environmental benefits, especially for dairy producers in heat-stressed regions and for beef-on-dairy calves. Sarah highlights how ST Genetics' Strategy platform enables data-driven mating decisions using genomic testing to track slick gene frequency and optimize herd progress. The future vision is to match non-slick Holsteins in genetic merit while delivering superior heat resilience, making slick genetics a no-compromise choice for global dairy sustainability.
The slick gene, a dominant trait causing a short, sleek coat, improves heat tolerance in cattle and is now integrated into elite Holstein lines via backcrossing.
Genomic testing is essential to identify slick carriers and track gene frequency across generations, especially when using heterozygous or homozygous sires.
Homozygous slick bulls ensure 100% of offspring inherit the slick gene, accelerating genetic progress and enabling heat-resilient beef-on-dairy calves.
ST Genetics is advancing slick genetics to match non-slick Holsteins in production, health, and longevity, eliminating the need for trade-offs.
The slick gene aligns with other desirable traits like A2A2 beta-casein and improved feed efficiency (ecofeed >100), enhancing overall herd value.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction to Slick Genetics and the SLIC Program
Laura Demmer introduces the episode and welcomes experts Yuri Yutsanami, Kevin Zimba, and Sarah Westbury to discuss the SLIC program at ST Genetics, focusing on the scientific and practical aspects of integrating the slick gene into Holstein cattle.
Origins and Discovery of the Slick Gene
“Participating in the SLEC 2 and SLEC 3 discovery was one of the most gratifying moments in my career.”
Integration of Slick Genetics into Holsteins
Kevin outlines the process of introgression—crossbreeding with donor breeds like Santhol and repeated backcrossing—to integrate the slick gene into Holsteins while preserving elite genetics. He notes the time and cost involved, and the importance of genomic testing to track carriers.
Economic and Global Impact of Slick Genetics
“If we can get to a point where the genetic levels are equivalent... in heat tolerant genetics associated with slick, we're going to be able to have cattle that produce that same amount of productivity without compromising genetic gain.”
Advancements in Slick Breeding and Genetic Progress
“Our ecofeed values for a lot of our slick genetics are well over 100 for ecofeed cow, which gives a little bit of an additional boost associated with feed conversion efficiency.”
“If we can get to a point where the genetic levels are equivalent... in heat tolerant genetics associated with slick, we're going to be able to have cattle that produce that same amount of productivity without compromising genetic gain.”
“We're going to be at a spot in the not too distant future within one to two generations where we're matching the genetic levels of the non-slick population.”
“The key is getting the genetic levels to where dairy producers globally feel like this is a win and I don't have to take a step backwards.”
Host
Guests
Slick Gene
other
Holstein
other
ST Genetics
organization
Kevin Zimba
person
Yuri Yutsanami
person
Creole Cattle
other
Sarah Westbury
person
Prolactin Receptor Gene
other
Strategy Platform
product
A2A2
other
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