Inside the Helix

“Inside the Helix” is a podcast presentation from DNA Genetics that focuses on all things that matter to the pork industry. Hear from DNA's team of geneticists, veterinarians, animal care providers, nutritionists and other industry-leading experts as they explore pig production from genetic improvement all the way to meat quality.

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Episodes

Gene Editing: Promise and Implications for the Swine Industry

Gene editing can offer countless advantages to the swine industry. Not only can gene editing speed up the traditional breeding process, it has the potential to eliminate or reduce the impact of various pathogens, such as the PRRS virus. While products of gene editing are not yet used in the swine industry, DNA Genetics stands ready to bring this technology to the pork producer when the time is right. DNA Genetics believes the use of this technology must only occur after thoughtful and responsibl...

May 02, 2023•22 min•Ep. 6

Genetic Selection Against E. coli

E. coli is a common gram-negative bacterium found in the gastrointestinal tracts of pigs. While not all E. coli strains cause harm, the F4/K88 and F18 strains can lead to illness in pigs. Dr. Emily Mauch-Swinford is a geneticist with DNA Genetics. In this episode, she describes the prevalence of these two strains, how genetic resistance can be used to reduce the number of sick pigs and how DNA Genetics is approaching genetic resistance to E. coli

Apr 18, 2023•19 min•Ep. 5

Feed Biosecurity

Biosecurity is extremely important to the pork industry in preventing disease outbreaks. In this episode, Dr. Jason Schneider, technical consultant with DNA Genetics, explains why producers should place more emphasis on the biosecurity of their feed supplies. He discusses four key feed mill biosecurity standard operating procedures and stresses the importance of developing a plan.

Apr 05, 2023•18 min•Ep. 4

Starting the Nursery Pig

Starting nursery pigs off properly after weaning can significantly impact future success of herds. In this episode, Dr. Christine Mainquist-Whigham, veterinarian and director of health for DNA Genetics and Pillen Family Farms, explains key management practices that can reduce stress and enhance the comfort and survivability of baby pigs. She also describes current research her team is focused on to improve early pig care practices.

Apr 05, 2023•18 min•Ep. 3

Nurse Sow Strategy: Are we moving too many pigs?

Moving piglets to nurse sows is a common practice within the swine industry. While this management strategy is necessary in some instances, Dr. John Sonderman, director of technical services with DNA Genetics, says DNA Genetics research is showing there may be added benefits keeping piglets with their mothers.

Apr 05, 2023•18 min•Ep. 2

Welcome to "Inside the Helix!"

Welcome to "Inside the Helix," a podcast presentation of DNA Genetics. Throughout this series, hear from industry-leading experts as they explore pig production from genetic improvement all the way to meat quality.

Mar 20, 2023•1 min•Ep. 1

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