Program Director:
- Dr. István Komlósi, DSc
Members:
- Dr. Sándor Mihók, CSc
- Dr. Béla Béri, CSc
- Dr. Lajos Juhász, PhD
- Dr. Péter Gyüre, PhD
- Dr. László Szendrei, PhD
- Dr. Károly Rédei, DSc
- Dr. János Posta, PhD
- Dr. László Kövér, PhD
- Dr. Attila Németh, PhD
Program Overview
Animal Breeding
Today, the predominant method in animal breeding is breeding value estimation, which predicts the genetic merit of farm animals. At nearly all animal science research centers, the Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (BLUP) methodology is applied, and in recent years several doctoral students have contributed to such research.
Beyond estimating the heritability of economic traits, studies have also evaluated the genetic structure of major registered domestic breeds and explored genetic connectedness among herds. The test-day model for dairy cattle genetic evaluation — already applied in several countries — has been adapted to Hungarian conditions. Research has also been conducted on breeding value estimation for Hungarian Grey and Hungarian Simmental cattle; in the latter case, particularly in dual-purpose variants, practical models are now available. Foundational research on breeding value estimation in Hungarian sheep populations has been completed and applied.
PhD research projects have included pedigree analyses across several livestock species, providing essential input for breeding value estimation. Using data from sport horse mare performance tests, heritability values and genetic/phenotypic correlations among evaluated traits were determined. Breeding value indices were developed for groups of mare test traits. A doctoral dissertation successfully defended in 2016 provided a mathematically substantiated evaluation of show-jumping performance results.
To assess lifetime genetic merit, survival analysis was performed on Hungarian sport horse populations based on show-jumping performance records. The test-day model, originally developed for dairy cattle, was also adapted as an innovative approach for analysing performance in equestrian sports.
Gene Conservation
Gene reserve protection is gaining increasing importance worldwide. Not only rare wild species but also domestic livestock require protection, as the population size of many local breeds is decreasing, with some already extinct. Protecting the genes of domestic animals represents a form of “genetic environmental protection,” since it seeks to preserve existing genetic and phenotypic diversity. This work also carries undeniable cultural significance: traditional breeds are the result of generations of human work, embodying historical, aesthetic, and agricultural values. Safeguarding them respects the heritage of past breeders while preparing for future needs.
Within this program, research has been carried out to explore the genetic and economic value of traditional domestic breeds. A scientifically rigorous database has been established to support animal breeding for the long term, with doctoral students contributing through individual dissertations.
The quality of gene conservation efforts across animal generations is evaluated by analysing the development of key traits in preserved populations, focusing on variation, persistence of rare phenotypes, and molecular-level diversity. Using the tools of molecular genetics, population genetics, and computational technology, we are conducting population-genetic and structural analyses of certain horse breeds. One advanced PhD dissertation focuses on molecular-genetic examination of pedigree data and maternal lineage verification. Combining studbook records with molecular genetic data enables more precise identification of maternal founders, providing a basis for the preservation of historically significant horse breeds.
Traditional in vivo gene conservation is carried out for several species and breeds, both in situ and ex situ, at our experimental farm and in cooperation with partners. In addition to maintaining live gene bank populations, this work includes in vitro preservation — partly through cryopreservation — of gametes, embryos, cell cultures, and DNA fragments. Conservation programs also involve the reintroduction of species once extinct in Hungary (e.g. European bison, capercaillie). Research further includes the historical documentation (“in libri gene conservation”) of old breeds such as the Carpathian Brown cattle, twisted-horn sheep, Mangalica pig, and native horse breeds.
This doctoral program is not limited to maintaining population size; it also focuses on the conscious preservation of rare alleles, ensuring the transmission of valuable traits to future generations and maintaining genetic diversity. Gene reserve protection is thus a constructive human activity that combines preservation, sustainable use, and continued productivity.
Animal Ecology
Wild animals play an important role in maintaining genetic diversity and natural habitats. Preserving their diversity and habitats is a matter of societal interest. The program also addresses the relationship between humans and wildlife, investigating coexistence and conducting research from physical, microbiological, and “One Health” perspectives.