Mark R Band

Title: Mark R Band: Innovator in Dairy Genetics

Introduction

Mark R Band is a notable inventor based in Savoy, IL (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of dairy genetics, particularly in understanding the genetic factors affecting milk fat and protein concentration. His work has implications for improving dairy cattle breeding and production.

Latest Patents

Mark R Band holds a patent that focuses on a quantitative trait locus (QTL) affecting milk fat and protein concentration. This QTL was localized to a 4cM confidence interval on chromosome 6, centered on the microsatellite BM143. The research characterized the genes and sequence variation in this region, identifying common haplotypes spanning five polymorphic sites in the genes IBSP, SPP1, PKD2, and ABCG2. Notably, the expression of SPP1 and ABCG2 in the bovine mammary gland increased from parturition through lactation. The sequencing of SPP1 and all coding exons of ABCG2 and PKD2 for two sires revealed a single nucleotide change capable of encoding a substitution of tyrosine-581 to serine (Y581S) in the ABCG2 transporter. This polymorphism corresponded to the segregation status of all three heterozygous and 15 homozygous sires for the QTL in the Israeli and US Holstein populations.

Career Highlights

Throughout his career, Mark R Band has worked with prestigious institutions, including the University of Illinois and the Agricultural Research Organization (Volcani Center) under the Ministry of Agriculture & Rural Development in Israel. His research has contributed to advancements in dairy genetics and has been instrumental in enhancing the understanding of genetic traits in cattle.

Collaborations

Mark has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as Miri Cohen-Zinder and Denis M Larkin. Their joint efforts have furthered research in the field and have led to significant findings in dairy genetics.

Conclusion

Mark R Band's innovative work in dairy genetics has paved the way for advancements in the industry. His contributions through his patent and collaborations highlight the importance of genetic research in improving dairy cattle production.