Translating miRNA biomarker discovery into novel veterinary diagnostics to increase the efficiency of milk production

This study will address the long-standing problem of low fertility in dairy cows which through reduced milk production results in significant profit loss by UK and global industries. We will develop and commercialise a robust, affordable assay for early pregnancy detection to facilitate reproductive management of cows and increase milk production efficiency. Specifically, following on our previous discovery of early pregnancy biomarkers we will establish optimum conditions for miRNA quantification in blood and milk for accurately determining early pregnancy status in commercial cattle. We will then seek to develop and test a novel assay platform for direct and accurate detection of miRNAs in cattle samples using proprietary nucleic acid technology. Finally, we will launch a laboratory-based or pen-side assay through spin-out company creation or licensing to existing Diagnostics companies. We envision this will bring significant improvements to productivity and welfare of dairy cows.