KU scientists unlock Red Sindhi cattle genome

Breakthrough linked to economic gains, disease resistance and modern livestock breeding

By Mukhtar Alam

KARACHI: Scientists at the University of Karachi have successfully completed the whole genome sequencing of Red Sindhi cattle, a milestone they say could significantly boost Pakistan’s livestock economy and strengthen disease control efforts.

The researchers describe the breakthrough as a “transformational step” toward modernising the country’s livestock sector through genomic science, opening new avenues for precision breeding, enhanced productivity, and improved resistance to diseases.

The work, led by the Dr A Q Khan Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (KIBGE), also included genomic characterisation of the Lumpy Skin Disease virus, enabling deeper insights into host–pathogen interactions and infection control strategies.

The project was carried out under the Sindh Higher Education Commission’s Post-Doctoral Fellowship Programme by Dr Roohi Kanwal, an assistant professor at the KU Zoology department, under the supervision of Prof Dr Saima Saleem, a senior professor at KIBGE, in collaboration with Dr Nazeer Hussain Kolhoro, Director of the Sindh Institute of Animal Health.

Red Sindhi cattle—medium-sized animals known for their reddish-brown to yellowish-red coat—are valued for their adaptability to harsh climates, relatively high milk yield, and resistance to local diseases. The study was conducted across farms in Sindh, including Karachi and Thatta, between August 2024 and August 2025.

Prof Dr Saima Saleem

Using next-generation sequencing technologies, the team mapped the breed’s complete genetic blueprint and identified genes linked to milk production, heat tolerance, and immunity. Scientists say this will allow more precise selection of superior animals, reducing reliance on conventional trial-and-error breeding.

Dr Roohi Kanwal said the breakthrough could have a “significant positive impact” on Pakistan’s economy, particularly in the livestock sector, which contributes substantially to GDP. “With access to precise genetic information, breeders can selectively enhance desirable traits such as higher milk yield, disease resistance and heat tolerance, improving productivity per animal and farmers’ income margins,” she noted, adding that it could also reduce reliance on imported dairy products and genetic material.

Dr Roohi Kanwal

She further said the availability of genomic data is likely to drive modernisation in the agricultural market and attract investment in livestock biotechnology and breeding programmes. “It enables the development of certified high-quality breeds that can be marketed at premium prices domestically and internationally, while opening doors for export of genetic resources and technologies,” Dr Kanwal said, adding that improved livestock performance would help stabilise milk and meat supply chains and support food security.

Beyond scientific advancement, researchers emphasised the broader economic implications, noting that genomic insights can support conservation of indigenous breeds and foster public-private partnerships, paving the way for a more data-driven and competitive livestock sector.

Importantly, the genomic data provides a foundation for infection prevention and control. By understanding genetic resistance in cattle alongside viral evolution, experts say targeted interventions, improved biosecurity, and more effective responses to lumpy skin disease and other emerging livestock infections can be developed.

Officials say the achievement places Pakistan among countries increasingly using genomics to strengthen agriculture, signalling a shift toward science-driven livestock management.

KU Vice-Chancellor Prof Khalid Mehmood Iraqi expressed gratitude to the Sindh Higher Education Commission for funding the project and praised KIBGE and its research team for their contribution to advancing science in infection prevention and control.

Photos courtesy: Officials