CRB-Anim: an illustration of the biobanking strategy recommended by the FAO for animal genetic resources

n 2020 and 2021, FAO prepared a draft of new guidelines based on innovations in the cryopreservation of animal genetic resources. This initiative constituted an update of the 2012 edition in the light of recent developments in the field of gene banking, including those resulting from the H2020 IMAGE (Innovative Management of Animal Genetic Resources) project coordinated by INRAE and funded by the EU, in which the FAO was a partner. Scientific experts from CRB-Anim, members of this international consortium, contributed to these guidelines published in 2023, in cooperation with the Nordic Center for Genetic Resources. The theme of biobanking strategy in animal genetics was therefore proposed to our institutional partners at the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS).

This intervention reaffirmed the role of biobanks for animal genetic resources, which ensure secure, long-term storage of genetic material and associated data in a context of conservation and enhancement of genetic diversity. Their mission of distributing resources implies conditions of security (traceability, duplication, backup) and compliance with legal requirements (ABS, Nagoya protocol, animal health) in a quality management environment.

Biological Resource Centers offer all these operating guarantees to provide dynamic resource management, facilitating storage and access to documented biological resources. They integrate upstream research projects and backup plans to satisfy a wide range of stakeholders. 

CRB-Anim now includes resources for 25 animal species, with over 650 breeds. Collections have increased by 80% in ten years, and will represent 620,000 samples in 2023. The dynamic management of BRCs and the coupling of reproductive and genomic resources enable the integration of numerous research projects benefiting from the acceleration of technologies in genomics and reproductive biotechnologies.

Reference “Practical Guide. FAO guidelines on animal production and health”.

Summary: The livestock sector is facing a series of challenges, including climate change, emerging diseases, competition for natural resources and changing demand for animal-based foods, which is increasing worldwide, particularly in developing countries. Livestock genetic diversity is a key resource in enabling breeders to meet these challenges, but this diversity is in decline. The decline in genetic diversity therefore represents a new obstacle to sustainable livestock production. Cryopreservation (i.e. ex situ - in vitro - conservation) of genetic resources through gene banking is one of the most powerful tools available to governments and other stakeholders to manage genetic diversity in the short and long term, and thus provide future generations with the tools to meet the challenges ahead. Gene banking of genetic resources is part of the Global Plan of Action for Animal Genetic Resources, which was drawn up and adopted by FAO member states. 

Citation: Boes, J., Boettcher, P. & Honkatukia, M., eds. 2023. Innovations in cryoconservation of animal genetic resources – Practical guide. FAO Animal Production and Health Guidelines, No. 33. Rome. https://doi.org/10.4060/cc3078ene