To date more than 35 labs worldwide have requested materials. These have been shared with over 20 labs worldwide. U.S. reference family DNA is available through each of the individual U.S. laboratories. This all can be shared once individual labs fill out a transport permit to move the DNA to their labs. Rules on sharing of materials and joint publication will need to be agreed upon if collaborative efforts are to be successful.
Some open discussion is needed on ways to continue to involve industry.
There has been a special effort to visit with individuals from swine breeding companies, the swine industry and other universities not already involved in the pig gene mapping efforts. In addition, several people from labs not previously represented were added to the NRSP-8 species committee. We need to have an open and useful dialog especially as it relates to activities such as looking for quantitative trait loci for production, reproduction and health traits. A great deal can be accomplished if the pig gene mappers work together. Constructive suggestions from researchers to help this coordination program grow and succeed are appreciated.