Nofima is working on the following areas within molecular genetics:
Development of molecular markers and genetic maps
In order to identify the most important genes controlling a specific characteristic, we need a set of markers and a genetic linkage map for the species. A typical linkage map contains thousands of markers spread over the entire genome. Recent developments in sequencing and genotyping technologies are providing more rapid and efficient means for identifying new markers and creating such linkage maps. Nofima Marin has been actively involved in the development of such resources for Atlantic salmon and cod, and is continuing this task with new species of international importance such as shrimp and carp.
Mapping of QTL and MAS
The use of marker assisted selection (MAS), in which molecular markers are used to select broodstock based on marker tests that are linked to favourable gene variants (Quanitative trait loci - QTL), has an enormous potential for the fish farming industry in Norway and internationally. For characteristics such as disease resistance, which cannot be measured on living breeding candidates, the utilisation of MAS could greatly increase the speed of genetic improvement in comparison to traditional breeding. Nofima Marin has had a high level of activity within this area and is contributing to solving disease-related challenges in Norwegian and international aquaculture. We are developing and testing breeding strategies that utilise molecular marker information. The goal of our research is to develop tools and methods for MAS and to apply MAS in such a way that the economic benefits to aquaculture industries are maximised.
Parentage testing and traceability
Nofima Marin has developed and implemented parentage testing based on molecular markers for Atlantic salmon and cod. Application of parentage testing could potentially increase the efficiency of breeding programs under some circumstances. The markers are also useful for tracing farmed fish in the supply chain, e.g. in instances of disease and escape.
Gene expression and gene function
When a gene is transcribed and translated into protein it is said to be "expressed". Which gene is expressed at any given moment in any given tissue is dependent on a number of factors. A tissue's gene expression response may be measured after particular stresses or changed conditions are experienced, and the extent and pattern of response may be indicative of an animal's susceptibility or resistance to particular stresses. Mapping the gene expression response can give us clues about what gene pathways are important in influencing certain characteristics and how the behaviour of genes within these pathways might influence cell function. Scientists at Nofima Marin are utilising gene expression profile information to describe the reactions of fish to disease challenges and other stress and to study how such information can be efficiently utilised in selective breeding programmes and as an early warning of stress in the farming environment.
Genetic variation and genetic interactions
Many unanswered questions remain about the influence of escaped farmed salmon on wild salmon. We know little about how and to what extent escaped farmed salmon interbreed and influence the genetics of wild salmon. Nofima Marin is using molecular markers to quantify the effect of cross-breeding between farmed salmon and wild salmon in order to contribute knowledge so the correct resource management strategies can be implemented. As increasing environmental demands are being imposed on fish farmers in Norway and internationally, this area of research will be important in order to achieve sustainability within aquaculture.
Rapid development of technology within the fields of molecular genetics and molecular biology is dramatically reducing the cost of applying such methods and, at the same time, increasing the capacity, accuracy and reliability of the application of these methods. By continuing to be at the forefront of research into the application of these tools and methods, Nofima Marin will play an important role in ensuring the future growth and sustainability of aquaculture.
