Autor: |
Cheng H; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China.; Shandong Key Lab of Animal Disease Control and Breeding, Institute of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China., Lyu Y; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China., Liu Z; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China., Li C; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China., Qu K; Academy of Science and Technology, Chuxiong Normal University, Chuxiong 675099, China., Li S; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China., Ahmed Z; Department of Livestock and Poultry Production, Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Poonch Rawalakot, Rawalakot 12350, Pakistan., Ma W; Shaanxi Province Agriculture & Husbandry Breeding Farm, Baoji 722203, China., Qi X; Animal Husbandry Bureau in Biyang County, Zhumadian 463700, China., Chen N; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China., Lei C; Key Laboratory of Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Shaanxi Province, College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China. |
Abstrakt: |
(1) Background: Mengshan cattle from the Yimeng mountainous region in China stand out as a unique genetic resource, known for their adaptive traits and environmental resilience. However, these cattle are currently endangered and comprehensive genomic characterization remains largely unexplored. This study aims to address this gap by investigating the genomic features and selection signals in Mengshan cattle. (2) Methods: Utilizing whole-genome resequencing data from 122 cattle, including 37 newly sequenced Mengshan cattle, we investigated population structure, genetic diversity, and selection signals. (3) Results: Our analyses revealed that current Mengshan cattle primarily exhibit European taurine cattle ancestry, with distinct genetic characteristics indicative of adaptive traits. We identified candidate genes associated with immune response, growth traits, meat quality, and neurodevelopment, shedding light on the genomic features underlying the unique attributes of Mengshan cattle. Enrichment analysis highlighted pathways related to insulin secretion, calcium signaling, and dopamine synapse, further elucidating the genetic basis of their phenotypic traits. (4) Conclusions: Our results provide valuable insights for further research and conservation efforts aimed at preserving this endangered genetic resource. This study enhances the understanding of population genetics and underscores the importance of genomic research in informing genetic resources and conservation initiatives for indigenous cattle breeds. |