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Mateescu's Animal Genetics & Genomics Lab

Mateescu's Animal Genetics & Genomics Lab

Sheep & Goat Resistance to Internal Parasites

Gastrointestinal nematode infections are the most pervasive problem currently facing small ruminant production. The situation of anthelmintic resistance in sheep and goat farms has exceeded the control capacity of U.S. producers. In addition to technical support schemes for diagnostic, it is important to implement genetic selection programs to identify superior resistant animals to gastrointestinal nematode infections and reduce the dependence on anthelmintic treatment. Unless these strategies are implemented for producers, the negative effects of anthelmintic resistance on small ruminant farming in the U.S. will continue to be detrimental.

Our research group focuses on identifying genetic markers for sustainable and practical management systems in sheep and goat populations, including the Florida Native sheep populations, to control gastrointestinal nematode infections.


Association study reveals Th17, Treg and Th2 loci related to resistance to Haemonchus contortus in Florida Native sheep

Signatures of selection for resistance to Haemonchus contortus in sheep and goats.

Association analysis of immune response loci related to Haemonchus contortus exposure in sheep and goats using a targeted approach.

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Effect of Ovar-DRA and Ovar-DRB1 genotype in small ruminants with haemonchosis

SARE grant awarded to graduate student Zaira Estrada

  • Graduate student Zaira Estrada Reyes has been awarded a Southern Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education (SARE) graduate student grant for her work on Genetic Markers for Resistance to Gastrointestinal Nematode Infections for a Sustainable Florida Native Sheep Production.
  • Zaira's grant was one of 13 selected from 180 applications.