Basic information regarding developmental processes in agriculturally important animals, including aquaculture species, is largely lacking. The primary objective of the program is to increase our understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying normal animal growth, development of the musculoskeletal system, lactation, shell egg production, and nutrient digestion and metabolism. New knowledge in these areas is needed to improve animal production and the control and manipulation of muscling, growth, metabolism and mammary function. Research is also needed to identify biological mechanisms for increasing dietary nutrient availability, directing nutrient partitioning toward more protein and less fat, enhanced nutrient composition in animal products, and minimizing excretion of endogenous nutrient and feed losses as waste products. Model systems must be justified in terms of the program guidelines.
Multidisciplinary research is encouraged.