The importance of genetics in the diagnosis of animal diseases - A review

Genetic diseases have always been present in the animal population but their significance has increased in recent decades. The wealth of knowledge on genomic information, systems biology and mechanisms of diseases provide great opportunities to elucidate the genetic bases of diseases. The use of recombinant DNA techniques in conjunction with conventional genetic methods have led to a rapid increase in knowledge of the genetic map. Many animal genes have been mapped to chromosomes. A detailed genetic map has become of great value in the diagnosis of genetic diseases and in the development of potential cures through gene transfer therapy. In view of the emerging animal diseases like avian influenza, swine influenza among others with serious health implications for humans, this review aims at highlighting the association between diseases and genes in animals. The information derived could assist in the prevention and management of emerging animal diseases and in future drug discovery processes.