Loren C. Skow

Research Interests:

My laboratory is seeking to understand the comparative organization and functional genetics of the mammalian genome by analysis of the genomes of ruminants (cattle, sheep and deer) and horses as compared to the genomes of human and mouse. Of particular interest are those regions of the mammlian genome which contain genes that confer resistance/susceptibility to the host upon exposure to parasites or infectious microbes. We are particular focused on the analysis of the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) of cattle, sheep and horses as genes in the MHC are primary determinants in host:pathogen interactions. The goal of this research is to develop improved livestock that are inherently resistant to infectious diseases.