By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University researchers are exploring a new way to help livestock producers identify sheep and goats that are naturally more resilient to disease. The work focuses on evaluating immune scoring as a tool to measure an animal’s immune strength and determine whether disease resilience can be passed on genetically.
Rachel Gibbs, NDSU Extension ruminant systems management specialist based at the Hettinger Research Extension Center, is leading the effort. Gibbs is studying the use of Promogen, an immune scoring technology developed by Anova Biosciences, to assess immunocompetence in sheep and goats. Promogen evaluates immune biomarkers called defensins, which are found in saliva and other mucosal fluids, to estimate an animal’s ability to fight disease.
While Promogen was originally developed for beef and dairy cattle, Anova scientists believe it could be effective in other species. As a result, Anova is partnering with NDSU to adapt and refine the technology for use in small ruminants.
With producer participation, Gibbs plans to incorporate Promogen testing into the Dakota Sire Testing Programs, which evaluate rams and bucks using performance-based and technology-assisted selection. Saliva samples will be collected from animals entered into the tests and sent to Anova for analysis. Producers who consign animals will receive individual immune scores for each ram or buck.
“I am really excited about the potential impact that Promogen could have on enhancing our understanding of disease resiliency and the subsequent impact on sheep and goat production,” says Gibbs.
Gibbs research career has focused on identifying biological markers linked to stress resistance and improving livestock productivity through better health management. She believes immune testing could allow producers to include immunity as a trait in genetic selection decisions.
“We believe Dr. Gibbs’ work is cutting-edge science and sorely needed to address the needs of modern ruminant agriculture management,” says Bill Julien, CEO of Anova Biosciences.
North Dakota is home to approximately 64,000 sheep and 9,000 goats, with both industries actively involved in research and innovation. Testing will begin in December 2025 with rams from four breeds in the 2025-2026 Dakota Ram Test. In 2026, the project will expand to evaluate how sire immunity affects feeder lamb health and performance.
Gibbs encourages interested producers to participate in the Dakota Sire Testing Program.
To explore the research further or discuss partnership opportunities, please reach out to Gibbs at 701-567-4323 or Julien at 402-677-2083.
Photo Credit: grazing-pexels-michalrobak
Categories: North Dakota, Education, Livestock, Goats & Sheep