Whole genome detection of sequence and structural polymorphism in six diverse horses.
- Journal Article
Summary
This research paper presents the use of whole genome sequencing to detect sequence and structural polymorphisms in six different breeds of horses. With this process, a more comprehensive collection of genetic variations within the horse species was attained which can contribute to identify the genetic underpinnings of various physiological adaptations of different horse breeds.
Study Methodology
The study selected six horses from six different breeds: American Miniature, Percheron, Arabian, Mangalarga Marchador, Native Mongolian Chakouyi, and Tennessee Walking Horse. These breeds, chosen due to their unique physiological adaptations and geographical diversity, were subjected to whole genome sequencing. The sequences generated were then mapped to the EquCab 3.0 horse reference genome.
- A total of 1.3 billion reads were generated and each horse test subject had coverage between 15x to 24x.
- Extensive filtration protocols were used to identify the gene variations within the sequences.
- These included Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), Insertions/Deletions (INDELs), Copy Number Variations (CNVs), and Structural Variations (SVs).
Study Findings
The study resulted in the identification of a considerable amount of previously unknown gene variations among the six horse breeds.
- They found 17,514,723 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs), 1,923,693 Insertions/Deletions (INDELs), and an average of 1,540 Copy Number Variations (CNVs) and 3,321 Structural Variations (SVs) per horse.
- The researchers were able to identify genes responsible for size variations among breeds, such as the LCORL gene (found in all horses), the ZFAT gene in the Arabian, American Miniature and Percheron horses, and the ANKRD1 gene in the Native Mongolian Chakouyi horse.
- A significant finding was the detection of a variant in the Latherin gene, which is associated with an evolutionary adaptation in thermoregulation through sweating, a pivotal factor in athletic performance and heat tolerance.
Implications of the Study
This study has significantly enriched the known collection of genetic variations in horses. These results represent an important resource for future genetic studies in horses.
- The new variants provide insight into the genetic reasons behind the diverse phenotypes seen in various horse breeds.
- The database can be utilized to better understand genetic adaptations to different climates, as well as the relationship between horses and humans.
- Ultimately, the findings will help to better identify and utilize the genetic potential of horses in various areas such as agriculture, sport, and therapy.
Cite This Article
Publication
Researcher Affiliations
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, College of Agriculture and Marine Sciences, Sultan Qaboos University, Al Khod, Muscat, Oman.
- Department of Animal Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America.
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States of America.
- Department of Biology, La Sierra University, Riverwalk Parkway, Riverside, CA, United States of America.
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States of America.
MeSH Terms
- Animals
- Body Size / genetics
- DNA Copy Number Variations
- Fatty Acid-Binding Proteins / genetics
- Genetic Variation
- Genome
- Horses / genetics
- INDEL Mutation
- Molecular Sequence Annotation
- Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide
- Whole Genome Sequencing
Conflict of Interest Statement
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