Section 8. DNA GENOTYPING/GENETIC DEFECT TESTINGS

A. DNA GENOTYPING: DNA genotyping is now a useful tool for livestock producer. A DNA genotype is utilized in establishing parentage and may also be used in determining the presence a genetic defect. DNA genotyping requires the breeder/owner to collect a blood or hair root follicle sample on the donor cow and the A.I. sire and send it to an ASA-approved DNA diagnostic lab (Ex: Igenity). Though parental verification is not required, submitting samples with sire and dam registration numbers is strongly encouraged. Genetic defect status can be verified via pedigree from TH Free and/or PHA Free matings from parentally verified animals at no charge.

1. General: Animals do not have to be DNA genotyped to be registered. However, if an animal becomes an A.I. sire or a donor dam, all required genetic testing must be completed and a DNA genotype record on file with the ASA prior to registering any progeny. In the event the A.I. sire, donor dam or cloned animal had not been DNA genotyped prior to death, ASA shall make a determination as to the appropriateness of issuing an A.I. certificate or E.T. certificate on a case-by-case basis. If any A.I sire, donor dam or cloned animal has died and was born after January 1, 2006, the required DNA genotype and genetic defect test results must be on file in order to register progeny.

2. Random DNA Genotyping: At the discretion of the ASA Board of Directors, random DNA genotyping may be performed. Failure to cooperate with an ASA request within (30) days of notification, will result in sanctions as deemed appropriate as provided in Article II. Section 7-D & Section 8 of the ASA Bylaws, including without limitation the suspension of the owner’s membership and suspension of the animal’s registration certificate.

3. Analysis: All DNA samples shall be analyzed by the ASA’s designated laboratory and an interpretation shall be rendered by the laboratory’s director.

B. GENETIC DEFECT TESTING: The following points represent the ASA policy on Genetic Defect Testing.

1. All AI sires, donor dams and cloned animals must be DNA genotyped and genetic defect tested with results reported to the ASA. In the event the A.I. sire, donor dam or cloned animal had not been genetic defect tested prior to death, ASA shall make a determination as to the appropriateness of issuing an A.I. certificate or E.T. certificate on a case-by-case basis. If any A.I. sire, donor dam or cloned animal has died and was born after January 1, 2006, the required genetic defect test results must be on file in order to register progeny. To test animals for genetic defects, the breeder/owner must collect a blood, semen, or hair root follicle sample and submit the proper forms to an ASA-approved diagnostic laboratory (Ex: Pfizer, Igenity, Agrigenomics). Registration numbers must be included with the original sample in order for results to be properly reported to the ASA. In addition, the breeder/owner MUST release the results to the ASA or report them via fax, email, or a verified copy of the original test results. Genetic defect results are NOT automatically reported to the ASA

2. A.I. certificates and E.T. certificates will be issued regardless of genetic defect status if genetic defect test results have been reported to the ASA.

3. A listing of genetic defect “free” and “carrier” males and females will be maintained by the ASA if the results have been released to ASA. This listing will be made available upon request. A periodically updated list will be available on the www.shorthorn.org website under “Registrations” menu, then the “Genetic Testing” submenu.

4. Registration certificates will be issued regardless of genetic defect status.

5. ASA reserves the right to conduct random genetic defect testing.

6. All cattle consigned to ASA sanctioned sales must be tested genetic defect free with results released to ASA prior to the sale or be genetic defect free by parentage.

7. The owner of any animal suspected of death as the result of a genetic defect shall contact the ASA office immediately and follow the appropriate protocol.

8. Breeders who misrepresent the genetic defect status of any animal are subject to fraud as defined in Rule II, Section 2.A.