Role of Marker-assisted Selection for Genetic Improvement in Livestock: A Review

Marker Assisted Selection (MAS) is a valuable tool in livestock breeding that helps improve desirable traits by using genetic markers linked to specific genes. Unlike traditional methods that rely on visible traits, MAS allows selection based on genetic makeup, making it more accurate and efficient. Introduced in the late 20^th century, MAS has evolved significantly with the integration of genomic technologies, advanced statistical modelling and gene-editing techniques. The key advantage of MAS is that it enables early selection, even before an animal’s phenotype is fully expressed, thus speeding up the breeding process and improving genetic gain. MAS has been successfully applied in various livestock species, including cattle, pigs and poultry, to enhance production traits like growth rate, feed efficiency, milk yield and disease resistance. The future of MAS lies in its integration with advanced genomic technologies, enabling precise selection for complex traits across diverse species. Continued advancements in gene editing and data analytics will enhance breeding efficiency, sustainability and genetic improvement in animal populations. Therefore, this comprehensive review explores the journey of MAS, highlighting its historical significance, the technological tools used in marker development, key properties, advantages and limitations, practical applications and future prospects.