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Pius L, Huang S, Wanjala G, Bagi Z, Kusza S. African Local Pig Genetic Resources in the Context of Climate Change Adaptation. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2407. [PMID: 39199941 PMCID: PMC11350805 DOI: 10.3390/ani14162407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2024] [Revised: 08/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Africa is home to a wide diversity of locally adapted pig breeds whose genetic architecture offers important insights into livestock adaptation to climate change. However, the majority of these inherent traits have not been fully highlighted. This review presents an overview of the current state of African pig genetic resources, providing highlights on their population and production statistics, production system, population diversity indices, and genomic evidence underlying their evolutionary potential. The study results reveal an incomplete characterization of local pig genotypes across the continent. The characterized population, however, demonstrates moderate to high levels of genetic diversity, enough to support breeding and conservation programs. Owing to low genetic differentiation and limited evidence of distinct population structures, it appears that most local pig populations are strains within larger breeds. Genomic evidence has shown a higher number of selection signatures associated with various economically important traits, thus making them potential candidates for climate change adaptation. The reportedly early evidence of hybridization with wild suid groups further suggests untapped insights into disease resistance and resilience traits that need to be illuminated using higher-density markers. Nevertheless, gene introgression from commercial breeds is prevalent across Africa; thus, efforts to realize and utilize these traits must increase before they are permanently depleted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lenox Pius
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (L.P.); (S.H.)
- Animal Breeding and Genetics Resource Section, Tanzania Livestock Research Institute (TALIRI), Dodoma 41207, Tanzania
| | - Shuntao Huang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, China; (L.P.); (S.H.)
| | - George Wanjala
- Centre for Agricultural Genomics and Biotechnology, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (G.W.); (Z.B.)
- Doctoral School of Animal Science, University of Debrecen, Böszörményi út 138, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary
- Institute of Animal Sciences and Wildlife Management, University of Szeged, Andrássy út 15, 6800 Hódmezővásárhely, Hungary
| | - Zoltán Bagi
- Centre for Agricultural Genomics and Biotechnology, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (G.W.); (Z.B.)
| | - Szilvia Kusza
- Centre for Agricultural Genomics and Biotechnology, University of Debrecen, Egyetem tér 1, 4032 Debrecen, Hungary; (G.W.); (Z.B.)
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Aryee SND, Owusu-Adjei D, Osei-Amponsah R, Skinner BM, Amuzu-Aweh EN, Ahunu B, Enright A, Sargent CA. Population Structure and Genomic Characterisation of the Ashanti Dwarf Pig of Ghana. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:792. [PMID: 38473177 DOI: 10.3390/ani14050792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
There is still limited information on the genomic structure and genetic diversity of African pigs. Genetic diversity studies can contribute significantly to the genetic improvement and conservation of African pigs. This study presents a genetic diversity analysis and population structure of pig breeds in Ghana, with a focus on the Ashanti Dwarf pig (ADP), an indigenous pig breed of Ghana. A total of 167 pigs sampled in Ghana and populations consisting of Ashanti Dwarf pigs (n = 106), exotics (mostly European pigs) (n = 11), crosses (between indigenous and exotic breeds) (n = 44), and unknown breeds (nondescript) (n = 6) were genotyped using Porcine SNP60K BeadChip. Moderate heterozygosity levels, ranging from 0.28 for Ashanti Dwarf pigs to 0.31 for exotic pigs (mostly European pigs), were observed. Principal component analysis of the pig populations within Ghana resulted in two distinct clusters of pigs: (i) Northern and (ii) Southern regional clusters. The PCA based on breed also resulted in four clusters: (i) ADPs; (ii) exotics (iii) crossbreeds between ADP and exotics; (iv) unknown breed types. The PCA demonstrated that the clustering was influenced by genetics, geographical location, production systems, and practices. ADMIXTURE-based analysis also showed that the populations within Ghana are admixed. FST analysis revealed SNPs associated with QTLs for traits such as disease resilience and growth among ADP populations within the different regional and ecological zones of Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sethlina Naa Dodua Aryee
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, UK
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1QU, UK
| | - Dennis Owusu-Adjei
- Department of Animal Science, University of Ghana, Accra P.O. Box LG43, Ghana
| | | | | | | | - Benjamin Ahunu
- Department of Animal Science, University of Ghana, Accra P.O. Box LG43, Ghana
| | - Anton Enright
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1TN, UK
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Hlongwane NL, Dzomba EF, Hadebe K, van der Nest MA, Pierneef R, Muchadeyi FC. Identification of Signatures of Positive Selection That Have Shaped the Genomic Landscape of South African Pig Populations. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:236. [PMID: 38254405 PMCID: PMC10812692 DOI: 10.3390/ani14020236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
South Africa boasts a diverse range of pig populations, encompassing intensively raised commercial breeds, as well as indigenous and village pigs reared under low-input production systems. The aim of this study was to investigate how natural and artificial selection have shaped the genomic landscape of South African pig populations sampled from different genetic backgrounds and production systems. For this purpose, the integrated haplotype score (iHS), as well as cross population extended haplotype homozygosity (XP-EHH) and Lewontin and Krakauer's extension of the Fst statistic based on haplotype information (HapFLK) were utilised. Our results revealed several population-specific signatures of selection associated with the different production systems. The importance of natural selection in village populations was highlighted, as the majority of genomic regions under selection were identified in these populations. Regions under natural and artificial selection causing the distinct genetic footprints of these populations also allow for the identification of genes and pathways that may influence production and adaptation. In the context of intensively raised commercial pig breeds (Large White, Kolbroek, and Windsnyer), the identified regions included quantitative loci (QTLs) associated with economically important traits. For example, meat and carcass QTLs were prevalent in all the populations, showing the potential of village and indigenous populations' ability to be managed and improved for such traits. Results of this study therefore increase our understanding of the intricate interplay between selection pressures, genomic adaptations, and desirable traits within South African pig populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nompilo L. Hlongwane
- Agricultural Research Council, Biotechnology Platform, Private Bag X5, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa; (K.H.); (R.P.); (F.C.M.)
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, South Africa;
| | - Edgar F. Dzomba
- Discipline of Genetics, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville 3209, South Africa;
| | - Khanyisile Hadebe
- Agricultural Research Council, Biotechnology Platform, Private Bag X5, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa; (K.H.); (R.P.); (F.C.M.)
| | - Magriet A. van der Nest
- Agricultural Research Council, Biotechnology Platform, Private Bag X5, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa; (K.H.); (R.P.); (F.C.M.)
- Hans Merensky Chair in Avocado Research, Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI), University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa;
| | - Rian Pierneef
- Agricultural Research Council, Biotechnology Platform, Private Bag X5, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa; (K.H.); (R.P.); (F.C.M.)
- Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - Farai C. Muchadeyi
- Agricultural Research Council, Biotechnology Platform, Private Bag X5, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa; (K.H.); (R.P.); (F.C.M.)
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Thema MA, Mphaphathi ML, Ledwaba MR, Nedambale TL. Sperm cryopreservation in Windsnyer boars; principles, technique, and updated outcomes. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20220100. [PMID: 38025997 PMCID: PMC10681127 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2022-0100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The domestic pig breeds are in danger of extinction whereas the erosion of their gene pool is a serious concern because they significantly contribute to the rich biodiversity. Overall aim of this study was to determine the protocol for preserving the semen of the Windsnyer boars for conservation. A total of 18 ejaculates (6 replications/boar) were collected from three Windsnyer boars of proven fertility with the use of hand-gloved approach method, twice per week. Boars semen were pooled and extended with Beltsville Thawing Solution [(BTS) IMV Technologies, France], held at 18°C for 3 hours and centrifuged. The sperm pellet was re-suspended with Fraction A (20% egg yolk + BTS) and cooled at 5°C for 1 hour. Following cooling, semen was divided and diluted into different cryoprotectants (ethylene glycol, glycerol, propanediol, ethylene glycol + glycerol + propanediol) at equal contribution to make the total concentrations [4, 8, 12 and 16% and the 0% (control; without cryoprotectant)] and loaded into 0.25 mL straws. Two cryopreservation methods (liquid nitrogen vapour and controlled rated) were used to cryopreserve the semen straws. Semen straws were thawed at different temperatures (5, 18, 37 and 40°C) and evaluated for sperm motility, viability, and morphology traits. Post-thawed sperm total motility (36.0±5.3) and live normal sperm (49.5±8.3) percentages were recorded to be higher in the treatment supplemented with 16% glycerol (P<0.05). The highest sperm total motility percentage was recorded at 40°C (26.8±3.2) thawing temperature for liquid nitrogen vapour treatment (P<0.05). In conclusion, 16% glycerol was found to be the suitable cryoprotectant concentration for semen cryopreserved with liquid nitrogen vapour method and thawed at 40°C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamonene Angelinah Thema
- Animal Production, Germplasm Conservation and Reproductive Biotechnologies, Agricultural Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Animal Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Masindi Lottus Mphaphathi
- Animal Production, Germplasm Conservation and Reproductive Biotechnologies, Agricultural Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mahlatsana Ramaesela Ledwaba
- Animal Production, Germplasm Conservation and Reproductive Biotechnologies, Agricultural Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Animal Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Tshimangadzo Lucky Nedambale
- Animal Production, Germplasm Conservation and Reproductive Biotechnologies, Agricultural Research Council, Pretoria, South Africa
- Department of Animal Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Pretoria, South Africa
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Machado PC, Brito LF, Martins R, Pinto LFB, Silva MR, Pedrosa VB. Genome-Wide Association Analysis Reveals Novel Loci Related with Visual Score Traits in Nellore Cattle Raised in Pasture-Based Systems. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243526. [PMID: 36552446 PMCID: PMC9774243 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Body conformation traits assessed based on visual scores are widely used in Zebu cattle breeding programs. The aim of this study was to identify genomic regions and biological pathways associated with body conformation (CONF), finishing precocity (PREC), and muscling (MUSC) in Nellore cattle. The measurements based on visual scores were collected in 20,807 animals raised in pasture-based systems in Brazil. In addition, 2775 animals were genotyped using a 35 K SNP chip, which contained 31,737 single nucleotide polymorphisms after quality control. Single-step GWAS was performed using the BLUPF90 software while candidate genes were identified based on the Ensembl Genes 69. PANTHER and REVIGO platforms were used to identify key biological pathways and STRING to create gene networks. Novel candidate genes were revealed associated with CONF, including ALDH9A1, RXRG, RAB2A, and CYP7A1, involved in lipid metabolism. The genes associated with PREC were ELOVL5, PID1, DNER, TRIP12, and PLCB4, which are related to the synthesis of long-chain fatty acids, lipid metabolism, and muscle differentiation. For MUSC, the most important genes associated with muscle development were SEMA6A, TIAM2, UNC5A, and UIMC1. The polymorphisms identified in this study can be incorporated in commercial genotyping panels to improve the accuracy of genomic evaluations for visual scores in beef cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela C. Machado
- Department of Animal Sciences, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa 84030-900, PR, Brazil
| | - Luiz F. Brito
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Rafaela Martins
- Department of Animal Sciences, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa 84030-900, PR, Brazil
| | - Luis Fernando B. Pinto
- Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Bahia, Av. Adhemar de Barros 500, Ondina, Salvador 40170-110, BA, Brazil
| | - Marcio R. Silva
- Melhore Animal and Katayama Agropecuaria Lda, Guararapes 16700-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Victor B. Pedrosa
- Department of Animal Sciences, State University of Ponta Grossa, Ponta Grossa 84030-900, PR, Brazil
- Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Correspondence:
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Assessing Genetic Diversity and Searching for Selection Signatures by Comparison between the Indigenous Livni and Duroc Breeds in Local Livestock of the Central Region of Russia. DIVERSITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/d14100859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Indigenous pig breeds are mainly associated with the adaptive capacity that is necessary to respond adequately to climate change, food security, and livelihood needs, and natural resources conservation. Livni pigs are an indigenous fat-type breed farmed in a single farm in the Orel region and located in the Central European part of the Russian Federation. To determine the genomic regions and genes that are affected by artificial selection, we conducted the comparative study of two pig breeds with different breeding histories and breeding objectives, i.e., the native fat-type Livni and meat-type Duroc breeds using the Porcine GGP HD BeadChip, which contains ~80,000 SNPs. To check the Livni pigs for possible admixture, the Landrace and the Large White breeds were included into the study of genetic diversity as these breeds participated in the formation of the Livni pigs. We observed the highest level of genetic diversity in Livni pigs compared to commercial breeds (UHE = 0.409 vs. 0.319–0.359, p < 0.001; AR = 1.995 vs. 1.894–1.964, p < 0.001). A slight excess of heterozygotes was found in all of the breeds. We identified 291 candidate genes, which were localized within the regions under putative selection, including 22 and 228 genes, which were specific for Livni and Duroc breeds, respectively, and 41 genes common for both breeds. A detailed analysis of the molecular functions identified the genes, which were related to the formation of meat and fat traits, and adaptation to environmental stress, including extreme temperatures, which were different between breeds. Our research results are useful for conservation and sustainable breeding of Livni breed, which shows a high level of genetic diversity. This makes Livni one of the valuable national pig genetic resources.
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Thema MA, Mphaphathi ML, Ledwaba MR, Nedambale TL. Investigation of the efficacy of different semen extenders and in vitro storage period on Windsnyer boar sperm quality equilibrated at 18°C. Reprod Domest Anim 2022; 57:1644-1648. [PMID: 36086994 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The study aimed to determine the efficacy of different semen extenders and in vitro storage periods on the Windsnyer boar sperm quality equilibrated at 18°C. Ejaculates (n=18) from three Windsnyer boars of known fertility were evaluated for macroscopic traits, pooled, and then allocated for extension in Beltsville Thawing Solution (BTS) and Kobidil+ extender. Diluted semen was stored at 18°C and evaluated at 0, 4, 8, 12, 24, and 48 hours post collection for sperm microscopic traits. Semen diluted with BTS extender maintained the highest live normal sperm percentage at 4 (63.0±10), 8 (49.6±8.7), 12 (38.0±12.6), 24 (22.6±10.7) and 48 (12.0±10.7) hours, when stored at 18°C (P<0.05). The BTS extender maintained the sperm total motility greater than 40% up to 24 hours at 18°C as compared to the other semen Kobidil+ extender treatments (P<0.05). Average <5% of sperm abnormalities were recorded over 48 hours of in vitro boars semen storage irrespective of the semen extenders. Windsnyer boars sperm quality was maintained over 48 hours when the semen was diluted with BTS and stored at 18°C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mamonene Angelinah Thema
- Agricultural Research Council, Animal Production, Germplasm Conservation and Reproductive Biotechnologies, Private Bag X2, Pretoria, South Africa.,Tshwane University of Technology, Department of Animal Science, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Masindi Lottus Mphaphathi
- Agricultural Research Council, Animal Production, Germplasm Conservation and Reproductive Biotechnologies, Private Bag X2, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Mahlatsana Ramaesela Ledwaba
- Agricultural Research Council, Animal Production, Germplasm Conservation and Reproductive Biotechnologies, Private Bag X2, Pretoria, South Africa.,Tshwane University of Technology, Department of Animal Science, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Tshimangadzo Lucky Nedambale
- Agricultural Research Council, Animal Production, Germplasm Conservation and Reproductive Biotechnologies, Private Bag X2, Pretoria, South Africa.,Tshwane University of Technology, Department of Animal Science, Pretoria, South Africa
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Yuan J, Zhou X, Xu G, Xu S, Liu B. Genetic diversity and population structure of Tongcheng pigs in China using whole-genome SNP chip. Front Genet 2022; 13:910521. [PMID: 36092902 PMCID: PMC9455598 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.910521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tongcheng (TC) pigs, distinguished by their superior meat quality, are a Chinese indigenous pig breed. Recently, the genetic resources of TC pigs are under tremendous threat due to the introduction of cosmopolitan pig breeds and African swine fever disease. To promote their management and conservation, the present study assessed genetic diversity and population structure of TC pigs using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. A total of 26, 999 SNPs were screened from 51, 315 SNPs in 68 TC pigs. The multi-dimensional scaling (MDS) analysis and neighbor-joining tree revealed that all 68 pigs were from a purebred population. The effective population size decreased over time, and it was 96 prior to generation 20. Both linkage disequilibrium (LD) and neutrality test indicated a low selection of TC pigs with average LD value of 0.15 ± 0.23. Genetic diversity results exhibited a minor allele frequency (MAF) of 0.23, observed heterozygosity (HO) of 0.32, expected heterozygosity (He) of 0.31, and nucleotide diversity (Pi) of 0.31. All these parameters indicated a remarkably high genetic diversity of TC pigs. Additionally, 184 runs of homozygosity (ROH) segments were detected from the whole genome of TC pigs with an average ROH length of 23.71Mb, ranging from 11.26Mb to 69.02 Mb. The highest ROH coverage was found on chromosome 1 (10.12%), while the lowest was on chromosome 18 (1.49%). The average inbreeding coefficients based on ROH (FROH) was 0.04%. Fourteen ROH islands containing 240 genes were detected on 9 different autosomes. Some of these 240 genes were overlapped with the genes related to biological processes such as immune function, reproduction, muscular development, and fat deposition, including FFAR2, FFAR4, MAPK8, NPY5R, KISS1, and these genes might be associated with such traits as meat quality and disease resistance in TC pigs. Taken together, population structure and genetic diversity results suggested that the TC pig represented a valuable genetic resource. However, TC pig breed conservation program remains to be further optimized to ensure adequate genetic diversity and avoid inbreeding depression. Our findings provide theoretical basis for formulating management and conservation strategies for TC pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiao Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiang Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- The Cooperative Innovation Center for Sustainable Pig Production, Wuhan, China
- The Engineering Technology Research Center of Local Pig Breed Improvement of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
| | - Guoqiang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Sanping Xu
- Department of Agricultural and Rural Bureau, Xianning, China
| | - Bang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
- The Cooperative Innovation Center for Sustainable Pig Production, Wuhan, China
- The Engineering Technology Research Center of Local Pig Breed Improvement of Hubei Province, Wuhan, China
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Admixture and breed traceability in European indigenous pig breeds and wild boar using genome-wide SNP data. Sci Rep 2022; 12:7346. [PMID: 35513520 PMCID: PMC9072372 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-10698-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Preserving diversity of indigenous pig (Sus scrofa) breeds is a key factor to (i) sustain the pork chain (both at local and global scales) including the production of high-quality branded products, (ii) enrich the animal biobanking and (iii) progress conservation policies. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) chips offer the opportunity for whole-genome comparisons among individuals and breeds. Animals from twenty European local pigs breeds, reared in nine countries (Croatia: Black Slavonian, Turopolje; France: Basque, Gascon; Germany: Schwabisch-Hällisches Schwein; Italy: Apulo Calabrese, Casertana, Cinta Senese, Mora Romagnola, Nero Siciliano, Sarda; Lithuania: Indigenous Wattle, White Old Type; Portugal: Alentejana, Bísara; Serbia: Moravka, Swallow-Bellied Mangalitsa; Slovenia: Krškopolje pig; Spain: Iberian, Majorcan Black), and three commercial breeds (Duroc, Landrace and Large White) were sampled and genotyped with the GeneSeek Genomic Profiler (GGP) 70 K HD porcine genotyping chip. A dataset of 51 Wild Boars from nine countries was also added, summing up to 1186 pigs (~ 49 pigs/breed). The aim was to: (i) investigate individual admixture ancestries and (ii) assess breed traceability via discriminant analysis on principal components (DAPC). Albeit the mosaic of shared ancestries found for Nero Siciliano, Sarda and Moravka, admixture analysis indicated independent evolvement for the rest of the breeds. High prediction accuracy of DAPC mark SNP data as a reliable solution for the traceability of breed-specific pig products.
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Selection and Drift: A Comparison between Historic and Recent Dutch Friesian Cattle and Recent Holstein Friesian Using WGS Data. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12030329. [PMID: 35158654 PMCID: PMC8833835 DOI: 10.3390/ani12030329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Over the last century, genetic diversity in the cattle species has been affected by the replacement of many local, dual-purpose breeds with a few specialized, high-output dairy breeds. This replacement caused a sharp decline in the population size of local breeds. In the Netherlands, the local Dutch Friesian breed has gradually been replaced by the Holstein Friesian. This resulted in a rapid decrease in numbers of the Dutch Friesian breed with an associated risk of loss of genetic diversity due to drift. The objective of this study is to investigate genomewide genetic diversity between a group of historic and recent Dutch Friesian bulls and a group of recently used Holstein Friesian bulls. Our findings showed that a large amount of diversity is shared between the three groups, but each of them has some unique genetic identity (12% of the single nucleotide polymorphism were group-specific). The genetic diversity of the Dutch Friesians reduced over time, but this did not lead to higher inbreeding levels—especially, inbreeding due to recent ancestors has not increased. Genetically, the recent Dutch Friesians were slightly more different from Holstein Friesians than the historic Dutch Friesians. Our results also highlighted the presence of several genomic regions that differentiated between the groups. Abstract Over the last century, genetic diversity in many cattle breeds has been affected by the replacement of traditional local breeds with just a few milk-producing breeds. In the Netherlands, the local Dutch Friesian breed (DF) has gradually been replaced by the Holstein Friesian breed (HF). The objective of this study is to investigate genomewide genetic diversity between a group of historically and recently used DF bulls and a group of recently used HF bulls. Genetic material of 12 historic (hDF), 12 recent DF bulls (rDF), and 12 recent HF bulls (rHF) in the Netherlands was sequenced. Based on the genomic information, different parameters—e.g., allele frequencies, inbreeding coefficient, and runs of homozygosity (ROH)—were calculated. Our findings showed that a large amount of diversity is shared between the three groups, but each of them has a unique genetic identity (12% of the single nucleotide polymorphisms were group-specific). The rDF is slightly more diverged from rHF than hDF. The inbreeding coefficient based on runs of homozygosity (Froh) was higher for rDF (0.24) than for hDF (0.17) or rHF (0.13). Our results also displayed the presence of several genomic regions that differentiated between the groups. In addition, thirteen, forty-five, and six ROH islands were identified in hDF, rDF, and rHF, respectively. The genetic diversity of the DF breed reduced over time, but this did not lead to higher inbreeding levels—especially, inbreeding due to recent ancestors was not increased.
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Krupa E, Moravčíková N, Krupová Z, Žáková E. Assessment of the Genetic Diversity of a Local Pig Breed Using Pedigree and SNP Data. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1972. [PMID: 34946921 PMCID: PMC8702119 DOI: 10.3390/genes12121972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Herein, the genetic diversity of the local Přeštice Black-Pied pig breed was assessed by the simultaneous analysis of the pedigree and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data. The information about sire line, dam, date of birth, sex, breeding line, and herd for 1971 individuals was considered in the pedigree analysis. The SNP analysis (n = 181) was performed using the Illumina PorcineSNP60 BeadChip kit. The quality of pedigree and SNPs and the inbreeding coefficients (F) and effective population size (Ne) were evaluated. The correlations between inbreeding based on the runs of homozygosity (FROH) and pedigree (FPED) were also calculated. The average FPED for all animals was 3.44%, while the FROH varied from 10.81% for a minimum size of 1 Mbp to 3.98% for a minimum size of 16 Mbp. The average minor allele frequency was 0.28 ± 0.11. The observed and expected within breed heterozygosities were 0.38 ± 0.13 and 0.37 ± 0.12, respectively. The Ne, obtained using both the data sources, reached values around 50 animals. Moderate correlation coefficients (0.49-0.54) were observed between FPED and FROH. It is necessary to make decisions that stabilize the inbreeding rate in the long-term using optimal contribution selection based on the available SNP data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emil Krupa
- Institute of Animal Science, 104 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (Z.K.); (E.Ž.)
| | - Nina Moravčíková
- Faculty of Agrobiology and Food Resources, Institute of Nutrition and Genomics, Slovak University of Agriculture, 949 76 Nitra, Slovakia;
| | - Zuzana Krupová
- Institute of Animal Science, 104 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (Z.K.); (E.Ž.)
| | - Eliška Žáková
- Institute of Animal Science, 104 00 Prague, Czech Republic; (Z.K.); (E.Ž.)
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12
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Genetic diversity and phylogenetic relationships within local pigs in southern Benin. Trop Anim Health Prod 2021; 53:434. [PMID: 34387779 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-021-02857-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The current context of climate change requires the conservation of local zoogenetic resources already very well adapted to the traditional breeding system, rough feeding, and heat and cold stress. This study assessed genetic diversity in local pigs in southern Benin, as a prerequisite for their sustainable use and sustainable management in Benin. A total of 69 individuals including 54 local pigs, 7 Large-White, and 8 hybrids (local pigs × Bush-pig) were genotyped by using 17 microsatellite markers. On the average, 8.94 alleles were detected per locus. Average expected and observed heterozygosities were respectively 0.51 and 0.46. Polymorphic information content was 0.61, and genetic diversity was 0.53. A phylogenetic tree gathered local pigs into three genetic clusters. Genetic structural analyses revealed introgression of Large-White's genes into the local pig's genome. Three groups were identified: hybrids (subpopulation 1), a mixture of Large-White and local pigs (subpopulation 2), and only local pigs (subpopulation 3). Symmetrical allelic distances were higher between subpopulations 1 and 2 (0.787) and then 1 and 3 (0.713). The same trend was detected for genetic distances between pairs of subpopulations. Genetic differentiation between subpopulations 2 and 3 was very weak as a consequence of high gene flow (10.82). Molecular variance analysis showed that 77% of genetic diversity within populations was related to variability between the individuals. These results showed that local pigs in southern Benin are threatened by genetic erosion and suggest prompt actions to implement sustainable conservation strategies.
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13
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Babigumira BM, Sölkner J, Mészáros G, Pfeiffer C, Lewis CRG, Ouma E, Wurzinger M, Marshall K. A Mix of Old British and Modern European Breeds: Genomic Prediction of Breed Composition of Smallholder Pigs in Uganda. Front Genet 2021; 12:676047. [PMID: 34249095 PMCID: PMC8261304 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.676047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pig herds in Africa comprise genotypes ranging from local ecotypes to commercial breeds. Many animals are composites of these two types and the best levels of crossbreeding for particular production systems are largely unknown. These pigs are managed without structured breeding programs and inbreeding is potentially limiting. The objective of this study was to quantify ancestry contributions and inbreeding levels in a population of smallholder pigs in Uganda. The study was set in the districts of Hoima and Kamuli in Uganda and involved 422 pigs. Pig hair samples were taken from adult and growing pigs in the framework of a longitudinal study investigating productivity and profitability of smallholder pig production. The samples were genotyped using the porcine GeneSeek Genomic Profiler (GGP) 50K SNP Chip. The SNP data was analyzed to infer breed ancestry and autozygosity of the Uganda pigs. The results showed that exotic breeds (modern European and old British) contributed an average of 22.8% with a range of 2-50% while "local" blood contributed 69.2% (36.9-95.2%) to the ancestry of the pigs. Runs of homozygosity (ROH) greater than 2 megabase (Mb) quantified the average genomic inbreeding coefficient of the pigs as 0.043. The scarcity of long ROH indicated low recent inbreeding. We conclude that the genomic background of the pig population in the study is a mix of old British and modern pig ancestries. Best levels of admixture for smallholder pigs are yet to be determined, by linking genotypes and phenotypic records.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Martin Babigumira
- Department of Sustainable Agricultural Systems, Division of Livestock Sciences, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
- International Livestock Research Institute, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Johann Sölkner
- Department of Sustainable Agricultural Systems, Division of Livestock Sciences, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gábor Mészáros
- Department of Sustainable Agricultural Systems, Division of Livestock Sciences, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christina Pfeiffer
- Department of Sustainable Agricultural Systems, Division of Livestock Sciences, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
- PIG Austria GmbH, Steinhaus, Wels, Austria
| | | | - Emily Ouma
- International Livestock Research Institute, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Maria Wurzinger
- Department of Sustainable Agricultural Systems, Division of Livestock Sciences, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria
| | - Karen Marshall
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
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14
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Rezende FM, Rodriguez E, Leal-Gutiérrez JD, Elzo MA, Johnson DD, Carr C, Mateescu RG. Genomic Approaches Reveal Pleiotropic Effects in Crossbred Beef Cattle. Front Genet 2021; 12:627055. [PMID: 33815465 PMCID: PMC8017557 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.627055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Carcass and meat quality are two important attributes for the beef industry because they drive profitability and consumer demand. These traits are of even greater importance in crossbred cattle used in subtropical and tropical regions for their superior adaptability because they tend to underperform compared to their purebred counterparts. Many of these traits are challenging and expensive to measure and unavailable until late in life or after the animal is harvested, hence unrealistic to improve through traditional phenotypic selection, but perfect candidates for genomic selection. Before genomic selection can be implemented in crossbred populations, it is important to explore if pleiotropic effects exist between carcass and meat quality traits. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify genomic regions with pleiotropic effects on carcass and meat quality traits in a multibreed Angus-Brahman population that included purebred and crossbred animals. Data included phenotypes for 10 carcass and meat quality traits from 2,384 steers, of which 1,038 were genotyped with the GGP Bovine F-250. Single-trait genome-wide association studies were first used to investigate the relevance of direct additive genetic effects on each carcass, sensory and visual meat quality traits. A second analysis for each trait included all other phenotypes as covariates to correct for direct causal effects from identified genomic regions with pure direct effects on the trait under analysis. Five genomic windows on chromosomes BTA5, BTA7, BTA18, and BTA29 explained more than 1% of additive genetic variance of two or more traits. Moreover, three suggestive pleiotropic regions were identified on BTA10 and BTA19. The 317 genes uncovered in pleiotropic regions included anchoring and cytoskeletal proteins, key players in cell growth, muscle development, lipid metabolism and fat deposition, and important factors in muscle proteolysis. A functional analysis of these genes revealed GO terms directly related to carcass quality, meat quality, and tenderness in beef cattle, including calcium-related processes, cell signaling, and modulation of cell-cell adhesion. These results contribute with novel information about the complex genetic architecture and pleiotropic effects of carcass and meat quality traits in crossbred beef cattle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernanda M Rezende
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Eduardo Rodriguez
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Joel D Leal-Gutiérrez
- Psychiatry Department, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Mauricio A Elzo
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Dwain D Johnson
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Chad Carr
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Raluca G Mateescu
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
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