DairyTalk 314: Recessive Disorder in Focus: Strategies to Address Muscle Weakness in the Holstein Population - by Helmut Demmelhuber

This podcast episode is based on an industry article examining
the genetic defect known as Muscle Weakness (MW) in Holstein
cattle. The analysis explains that the disorder is inherited in a
recessive manner and becomes clinically visible only when both
parents carry the mutation. Genomic testing now allows breeders
to identify carrier animals with high precision, making targeted
mating strategies possible. The article argues that eliminating
all carriers from breeding programs may not be the most effective
approach. Instead, it outlines how controlled mating decisions
can limit the spread of the defect while maintaining valuable
genetic progress.