Osteopetrosis (OS) is a lethal genetic condition caused by a recessive mutation that affects Red
Angus cattle. Affected calves are most often born 10
– 30 days premature and dead; those born alive will
live for less than 24 hours and have a short lower
jaw and impacted molars. The long bones on the
affected calves are fragile and can be broken with
ease. The gene is inherited as a simple recessive.
Pfizer Animal Genetics is now offering a diagnostic test for the genetic condition Osteopetrosis (OS)*. The
gene mutation responsible for OS has been identified
and a diagnostic test has been developed and
validated in collaboration with Dr. Jon Beever at
the University of Illinois and the following
organizations:
- University of Nebraska-Lincoln
- University of Wyoming
- University of Maryland
- U.S. Department of Agriculture Meat Animal
Research Center
- U.S. Department of Agriculture Beltsville
Agricultural Research Center
- Red Angus Association of America (RAAA)
Additionally, Pfizer Animal Genetics has been
approved by the RAAA as an official OS testing
laboratory.
Testing for OS
Testing of suspect animals is essential to avoid the
negative impact of OS and slow proliferation of the
recessive gene.
Samples for testing may be submitted in one of the
following forms:
- Hair follicles. When sending
hair samples, please make sure at least 25 follicles
(bulb intact) are included to ensure an adequate
volume of DNA to complete the test.
- Blood FTA® cards.
- Semen samples.
- Whole blood samples in purple-topped
tubes
* Please see order form for details on combined genetic conditions testing offers for Osteopetrosis, Neuropathic Hydrocephalus and Arthrogryposis Multiplex.
Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) Homepage
http://www.redangus.org/
RAAA Updates and Information on OS
http://redangus.org/node/215
Canadian Red Angus Association
http://www.cdnangus.ca/
Canadian Red Angus Genetic Defect Information
http://www.cdnangus.ca/breed/Genetic_Defects.htm
Red Angus Society of Australia
http://www.redangus.org.au/