Catherine Ernst
Affiliations
USDA National Animal Genome Research Program, Pig Genome Co-Coordinator
Research
Laboratory: Animal Molecular Genetics Laboratory
The Animal Molecular Genetics Laboratory focuses on identification and evaluation of genes and genetic markers associated with genetic improvement of production traits in pigs and other meat animal species. Much of our research is at the interface of structural and functional genomics, including a genetical genomics project to integrate genetic marker and gene expression data to identify genes controlling skeletal muscle and fat deposition, and their relationship to growth, carcass composition and meat quality in pigs. This effort applies both RNAseq and miRNAseq approaches in order to reveal gene regulatory networks and pathways. The lab also uses functional genomics approaches including transcriptome sequencing and assessment of DNA methylation patterns to study pig skeletal muscle development, and stress response in pigs. Additional projects include discovery and evaluation of RNA editing sites, and cataloging DNA methylation patterns for various pig tissues.
Teaching
ANS 801 (Methods of Teaching Animal Science)
Publications
Visit ResearchGate for a list of publications.
Related Work
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South Campus Animal Farms provides facilities to support MSU teaching, research, outreach missions
Published on October 6, 2021
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MSU names Cathy Ernst new chair for the Department of Animal Science
Published on May 10, 2021
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13th Annual Animal Science Graduate Research Forum
Published on October 19, 2018
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Alliance to more than double research, outreach investment in Michigan’s animal agriculture industry
Published on January 9, 2017
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Redesigning genetic technology: Efforts aim to cut costs, improve accessibility
Published on November 4, 2014