New study reveals key genes in African cattle

Analysis of combined DNA datasets highlights genetic areas of interest for breeding livestock adapted to challenging environments.

A novel approach to identifying genetic regions of interest in African cattle could help to breed animals that are adapted to challenging environmental conditions such as high temperature and low rainfall.

Researchers have combined and analysed DNA data from various sources to reveal useful insights into areas of cattle genomes linked to valuable breed characteristics.

Their study could support breeding and management by identifying DNA regions linked to useful traits, such as heat and disease tolerance, which are difficult to tackle using traditional approaches. 

It will also contribute to preserving genetic diversity among indigenous breeds that are adapted to local climates.

Three cattle with large horns are lying on grass in the sunshine.
Research helps highlight areas of cattle genomes linked to useful characteristics.

Complex data

A team of scientists led by the Roslin Institute combined genetic data of eight African cattle breeds with data from a worldwide study of DNA regulation.

They included details of regions of the genetic code associated with characteristics related to environmental adaptation, measurable traits such as disease resistance, and activity levels of key genes. 

They carried out statistical analysis to identify areas of the genome linked to valuable traits.

This revealed important regions of the genome that were not apparent from single sets of data, including a gene linked to resistance to East Coast fever and another associated with tolerance to warm climates.

The approach could be valuable in informing breeding in African cattle, whose rich genetic diversity is formed from adapting to various environmental challenges. 

The study, published in BMC Genomics, was carried out in collaboration with researchers from Westlake University, China, and Aarhus University, Denmark.

Gaining insights into the genetic landscape of indigenous African cattle and identifying areas of DNA linked to useful traits can contribute to targeted breeding and help preserve genetic diversity.

 

** The Roslin Institute receives strategic investment funding from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and it is part of the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies. **  

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Image credit: Pixabay.