Consequence of epigenetic processes on animal health and productivity: is additional level of regulation of relevance?

Abstract

Epigenetic factors respond to environmental factors and underlying genotypes to influence livestock phenotypic expression (e.g., milk yield, wool quality, disease resistance, growth, and development, etc.). • Epigenetic alterations are associated with livestock traits and with differences in livestock product yields. • A window is opened for exploring the mechanisms of disease resistance in farm animals through epigenetic processes. • Consideration of genetic mechanisms of Mendelian inheritance and epigenetic mechanisms of non-Mendelian inheritance may further increase genetic gain in livestock trait improvement. • Epigenetic factors provide additional levels of livestock trait regulation and are relevant for livestock management and improvement.