1
|
Kapritchkoff RTI, Okino CH, Niciura SCM, Bello HJS, Matos RS, Melito GR, Bressani FA, Esteves SN, Chagas ACDS. Association of β-globin polymorphisms and tolerance to haemonchosis in ewes and lambs of different sheep breeds. Vet Parasitol 2024; 328:110163. [PMID: 38513446 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2024.110163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN), especially Haemonchus contortus, represent a significant challenge for sheep production. Given the global concern about GIN anthelmintic resistance, alternative control methods able to reduce the dependence on these drugs are highly advisable. Since previous studies have shown that sheep carrying the Hb-A allele of β-globin are more resistant to H. contortus, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between the different haplotypes (Hb-AA, Hb-AB and Hb-BB) and phenotypes in Santa Inês (SI), Texel (TX) and White Dorper (DO) breeds infected with H. contortus. Blood samples were collected from 180 ewes and 123 lambs of the three breeds for DNA extraction followed by qPCR using a hydrolysis probe to identify the β-globin haplotypes. Phenotypic data, including fecal egg count (FEC), packed cell volume (PCV), FAMACHA score and body condition score for ewes and lambs, as well as weight gain for lambs, were collected. The genotypic frequencies of β-globin for ewes and lambs were, respectively: 21.7% and 21.4% Hb-AA, 50% and 50% Hb-AB and 28.3% and 28.6% Hb-BB in SI; 0% and 0% Hb-AA, 18.6% and 9.4% Hb-AB and 81.4% and 90.6% Hb-BB in TX; and 0% and 0% Hb-AA, 13.1% and 0% Hb-AB and 86.9% and 100% Hb-BB in DO. In ewes, mean PCV differed (p<0.05) between the three haplotypes, with higher PCV in Hb-AA animals, followed by Hb-AB and Hb-BB. When considering each breed separately, SI Hb-AA ewes presented higher PCV (p<0.05), highlighting that even in a breed already considered resistant, animals with Hb-AA haplotype showed superior performance. Lambs with the Hb-AA haplotype exhibited a higher (p<0.05) mean PCV compared to those with Hb-AB and Hb-BB. The same pattern was found in SI when analyzing each breed separately. No significant association was found between β-globin haplotypes and FEC, FAMACHA score, body condition score, or weight gain. Nevertheless, given that anemia is the major clinical sign of haemonchosis, our findings on PCV reinforce that sheep carrying the Hb-A allele of β-globin are more tolerant to haemonchosis. This study may support the development of a valuable tool, targeting genetic selection for GIN control, reducing the dependence on anthelmintics and boosting sheep production worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela Tami Ikeda Kapritchkoff
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, Jaboticabal, São Paulo 14884-900, Brazil.
| | - Cintia Hiromi Okino
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Simone Cristina Méo Niciura
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Hornblenda Joaquina Silva Bello
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Renata Silva Matos
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Glaucia Roberta Melito
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Flavia Aline Bressani
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Sérgio Novita Esteves
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina de Souza Chagas
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, P.O. Box 339, São Carlos, São Paulo 13560-970, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Niciura SCM, Sanches GM. Machine learning prediction of multiple anthelmintic resistance and gastrointestinal nematode control in sheep flocks. Rev Bras Parasitol Vet 2024; 33:e019023. [PMID: 38511818 PMCID: PMC10954252 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612024014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
The high prevalence of Haemonchus contortus and its anthelmintic resistance have affected sheep production worldwide. Machine learning approaches are able to investigate the complex relationships among the factors involved in resistance. Classification trees were built to predict multidrug resistance from 36 management practices in 27 sheep flocks. Resistance to five anthelmintics was assessed using a fecal egg count reduction test (FECRT), and 20 flocks with FECRT < 80% for four or five anthelmintics were considered resistant. The data were randomly split into training (75%) and test (25%) sets, resampled 1,000 times, and the classification trees were generated for the training data. Of the 1,000 trees, 24 (2.4%) showed 100% accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity in predicting a flock as resistant or susceptible for the test data. Forage species was a split common to all 24 trees, and the most frequent trees (12/24) were split by forage species, grazing pasture area, and fecal examination. The farming system, Suffolk sheep breed, and anthelmintic choice criteria were practices highlighted in the other trees. These management practices can be used to predict the anthelmintic resistance status and guide measures for gastrointestinal nematode control in sheep flocks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Guilherme Martineli Sanches
- Departamento de Ciência do Solo, Escola Superior de Agricultura “Luiz de Queiroz” - ESALQ, Universidade de São Paulo - USP, Piracicaba, SP, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Niciura SCM, Cardoso TF, Ibelli AMG, Okino CH, Andrade BG, Benavides MV, Chagas ACDS, Esteves SN, Minho AP, Regitano LCDA, Gondro C. Multi-omics data elucidate parasite-host-microbiota interactions and resistance to Haemonchus contortus in sheep. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:102. [PMID: 38429820 PMCID: PMC10908167 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06205-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The integration of molecular data from hosts, parasites, and microbiota can enhance our understanding of the complex biological interactions underlying the resistance of hosts to parasites. Haemonchus contortus, the predominant sheep gastrointestinal parasite species in the tropics, causes significant production and economic losses, which are further compounded by the diminishing efficiency of chemical control owing to anthelmintic resistance. Knowledge of how the host responds to infection and how the parasite, in combination with microbiota, modulates host immunity can guide selection decisions to breed animals with improved parasite resistance. This understanding will help refine management practices and advance the development of new therapeutics for long-term helminth control. METHODS Eggs per gram (EPG) of feces were obtained from Morada Nova sheep subjected to two artificial infections with H. contortus and used as a proxy to select animals with high resistance or susceptibility for transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) of the abomasum and 50 K single-nucleotide genotyping. Additionally, RNA-seq data for H. contortus were generated, and amplicon sequence variants (ASV) were obtained using polymerase chain reaction amplification and sequencing of bacterial and archaeal 16S ribosomal RNA genes from sheep feces and rumen content. RESULTS The heritability estimate for EPG was 0.12. GAST, GNLY, IL13, MGRN1, FGF14, and RORC genes and transcripts were differentially expressed between resistant and susceptible animals. A genome-wide association study identified regions on chromosomes 2 and 11 that harbor candidate genes for resistance, immune response, body weight, and adaptation. Trans-expression quantitative trait loci were found between significant variants and differentially expressed transcripts. Functional co-expression modules based on sheep genes and ASVs correlated with resistance to H. contortus, showing enrichment in pathways of response to bacteria, immune and inflammatory responses, and hub features of the Christensenellaceae, Bacteroides, and Methanobrevibacter genera; Prevotellaceae family; and Verrucomicrobiota phylum. In H. contortus, some mitochondrial, collagen-, and cuticle-related genes were expressed only in parasites isolated from susceptible sheep. CONCLUSIONS The present study identified chromosome regions, genes, transcripts, and pathways involved in the elaborate interactions between the sheep host, its gastrointestinal microbiota, and the H. contortus parasite. These findings will assist in the development of animal selection strategies for parasite resistance and interdisciplinary approaches to control H. contortus infection in sheep.
Collapse
|
4
|
Okino CH, Niciura SCM, Giaretta PR, Melito GR, Kapritchkoff RTI, Santos IBD, Rech RR, Minho AP, Esteves SN, Chagas ACDS. Enhanced mucosal response in sheep harbouring β A beta-globin against haemonchosis. Parasite Immunol 2023; 45:e13003. [PMID: 37400087 DOI: 10.1111/pim.13003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 06/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
Association between ovine β-globin polymorphisms and resistance against haemonchosis was described and related to the mechanism of high oxygen affinity βA ➔ βC switch during anaemia, but there are no studies regarding the involved local host responses. Phenotypic parameters and local responses were evaluated in sheep from two β-globin haplotypes naturally infected with Haemonchus contortus. Morada Nova lambs were monitored at 63, 84 and 105 days of age for faecal egg counts and packed cell volume (PCV) under natural infection with H. contortus. At 210 days of age, lambs of Hb-AA and Hb-BB β-globin haplotypes were euthanised, and the fundic region of abomasum was sampled for evaluation of microscopic lesions and relative expression of genes related to immune, mucin and lectin activities. Lambs harbouring the βA allele presented an improved resistance/resilience against clinical haemonchosis, showing higher PCV during infection. Hb-AA animals presented increased eosinophilia in the abomasum compared to Hb-BB animals, accompanied by higher Th2 profile, mucin and lectin activity transcripts, while the inflammatory response was increased in Hb-BB animals. This is the first report to demonstrate an enhanced local response in the primary site of H. contortus infection related to βA allele of β-globin haplotype.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Paula Roberta Giaretta
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | | | | | - Isabella Barbosa Dos Santos
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Raquel Rubia Rech
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Niciura SCM, Minho AP, McIntyre J, Benavides MV, Okino CH, Esteves SN, Chagas ACDS, Amarante AFTD. In vitro culture of parasitic stages of Haemonchus contortus. Rev Bras Parasitol Vet 2023; 32:e010122. [PMID: 36651422 DOI: 10.1590/s1984-29612023005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Haemonchus contortus is a constraint to sheep production. Seeking to reduce the use of hosts and produce parasitic stages in large-scale, a 42-day in vitro culture protocol of H. contortus third-stage larvae was optimized using Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM). In cell-free culture, larvae were maintained at 39.6°C, in acidic media (pH 6.1) for 3 or 6 days with Δ4-dafachronic acid followed by DMEM pH 7.4 supplemented or not with Fildes' reagent. In DMEM pH 7.4 at 37°C, supplementation with Caco-2 cells was compared to Fildes. On Day 14, fourth-stage larvae (L4) development rates in acidic media supplemented (86.8-88.4%) or not (74.4-77.8%) with Fildes and in Caco-2 cell co-culture (92.6%) were similar, and superior to DMEM pH 7.4 with Fildes (0.0%). On Day 21, Caco-2 cell co-culture resulted in higher larvae differentiation (25.0%) and lower degeneration (13.9%) compared to acidic media (1.5-8.1% and 48.6-69.9%, respectively). This is the first report of prolonged in vitro culture of H. contortus larvae using commercial media in co-culture with Caco-2 cells. Although no progression to the adult stage, Caco-2 cell co-culture resulted in morphological differentiation of H. contortus L4 and larval viability for up to 28 days.
Collapse
|
6
|
Giglioti R, Silva Ferreira JFD, Luciani GF, Louvandini H, Okino CH, Niciura SCM, de Sena Oliveira MC, Talamini do Amarante AF, Katiki LM. Potential of Haemonchus contortus first-stage larvae to characterize anthelmintic resistance through P-glycoprotein gene expression. Small Rumin Res 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2022.106864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
|
7
|
Niciura SCM, Okino CH, Nucci ADS, Malagó W, Benavides MV, Esteves SN, Chagas ACDS. Polymorphisms in exon 11 of the mptl-1 gene and monepantel resistance in Haemonchus contortus. Parasitol Res 2022; 121:3581-3588. [PMID: 36194275 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-022-07682-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Chemical treatments are the main strategy to control gastrointestinal nematodes in sheep, and the emergence of anthelmintic resistance, as consequence, results in control failures and leads to economic losses. Thus, molecular tests may constitute an excellent tool for the early detection of anthelmintic resistance-related mutations. Thus, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based genotyping assay followed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) was developed to detect polymorphisms in exon 11 of the acetylcholine receptor monepantel-1 gene (mptl-1) that were previously associated with monepantel resistance through a genome-wide study in Haemonchus contortus. DNA samples recovered from individual and pooled third-stage larvae from two susceptible field-derived isolates and five (three in vivo-derived and two field-derived) resistant populations were used. New polymorphisms, including a 6-bp deletion and a 3-bp insertion, were detected in resistant individuals. These indels, confirmed using sequencing of cloned PCR products, are predicted to result in amino acid changes in transmembrane domain 2 (TMD2) of the MPTL-1 protein. The two susceptible isolates showed only the presence of the wild-type allele (100%), whereas lower frequencies of the wild-type allele were detected in monepantel-resistant populations (11.1 to 66.7%). These findings report new polymorphisms in the mptl-1 gene, validate the results obtained through genomic mapping for monepantel resistance, and provide a PCR-based assay to genotype indels located in exon 11 of mptl-1 in H. contortus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Cristina Méo Niciura
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234, Fazenda Canchim, São Carlos, SP, CEP 13560-970, Brazil.
| | - Cintia Hiromi Okino
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234, Fazenda Canchim, São Carlos, SP, CEP 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Alessandra da Silva Nucci
- Centro Universitário Central Paulista, Rua Miguel Petroni, 5111, São Carlos, SP, CEP 13563-470, Brazil
| | - Wilson Malagó
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234, Fazenda Canchim, São Carlos, SP, CEP 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Magda Vieira Benavides
- Embrapa Pecuária Sul, Rodovia BR-153, Km 632,9, Vila Industrial, Bagé, RS, CEP 96401-970, Brazil
| | - Sergio Novita Esteves
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234, Fazenda Canchim, São Carlos, SP, CEP 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina de Souza Chagas
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234, Fazenda Canchim, São Carlos, SP, CEP 13560-970, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
de Souza MM, Niciura SCM, Rocha MIP, Pan Z, Zhou H, Bruscadin JJ, da Silva Diniz WJ, Afonso J, de Oliveira PSN, Mourão GB, Zerlotini A, Coutinho LL, Koltes JE, de Almeida Regitano LC. DNA methylation may affect beef tenderness through signal transduction in Bos indicus. Epigenetics Chromatin 2022; 15:15. [PMID: 35562812 PMCID: PMC9107245 DOI: 10.1186/s13072-022-00449-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Beef tenderness is a complex trait of economic importance for the beef industry. Understanding the epigenetic mechanisms underlying this trait may help improve the accuracy of breeding programs. However, little is known about epigenetic effects on Bos taurus muscle and their implications in tenderness, and no studies have been conducted in Bos indicus. RESULTS Comparing methylation profile of Bos indicus skeletal muscle with contrasting beef tenderness at 14 days after slaughter, we identified differentially methylated cytosines and regions associated with this trait. Interestingly, muscle that became tender beef had higher levels of hypermethylation compared to the tough group. Enrichment analysis of predicted target genes suggested that differences in methylation between tender and tough beef may affect signal transduction pathways, among which G protein signaling was a key pathway. In addition, different methylation levels were found associated with expression levels of GNAS, PDE4B, EPCAM and EBF3 genes. The differentially methylated elements correlated with EBF3 and GNAS genes overlapped CpG islands and regulatory elements. GNAS, a complex imprinted gene, has a key role on G protein signaling pathways. Moreover, both G protein signaling pathway and the EBF3 gene regulate muscle homeostasis, relaxation, and muscle cell-specificity. CONCLUSIONS We present differentially methylated loci that may be of interest to decipher the epigenetic mechanisms affecting tenderness. Supported by the previous knowledge about regulatory elements and gene function, the methylation data suggests EBF3 and GNAS as potential candidate genes and G protein signaling as potential candidate pathway associated with beef tenderness via methylation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Maria de Souza
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, São Carlos, Brazil.,Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, USA
| | | | - Marina Ibelli Pereira Rocha
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, São Carlos, Brazil.,Department of Genetics and Evolution, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Zhangyuan Pan
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Huaijun Zhou
- Department of Animal Science, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Jennifer Jessica Bruscadin
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, São Carlos, Brazil.,Department of Genetics and Evolution, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, Brazil
| | - Wellison Jarles da Silva Diniz
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, São Carlos, Brazil.,Department of Animal Science, Auburn University, Auburn, Alabama, USA
| | - Juliana Afonso
- Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, São Carlos, Brazil
| | | | - Gerson B Mourão
- Department of Animal Science, Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - Adhemar Zerlotini
- Embrapa Informática Agropecuária, Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Campinas, Brazil
| | - Luiz Lehmann Coutinho
- Department of Animal Science, Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture, University of São Paulo, Piracicaba, Brazil
| | - James E Koltes
- Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Okino CH, Caminotto LCF, Kapritchkoff RTI, Niciura SCM, Esteves SN, Santos IBD, Toscano JHB, Oliveira MCS, Chagas ACS. Comparison of ovine β-globin haplotype sequences and a new multiplex PCR for identification. Vet Parasitol 2021; 300:109592. [PMID: 34678672 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Deletion of pre-adult βC-globin in sheep harboring BB haplotype of β-globin was associated to decreased tolerance to anemia and hypoxia, and consequently, reduced resistance to Haemonchus contortus infection, which is closely related to severe anemia. Recently, a qPCR using hydrolysis probe was successfully developed for β-globin haplotype identification, and association between resistance against H. contortus and presence of βA allele was observed in Morada Nova sheep. Thus, this study aimed to better investigate the differences between β-globin haplotypes and to develop a conventional multiplex PCR, as an alternative to qPCR assay for β-globin haplotype identification. A total of 333 Morada Nova lambs had their blood collected and tested by both qPCR and new multiplex PCR, and 100 % of agreement was observed between the results. Since different primers were designed for such assay development, including different target genes, high specificity of both methods may be also highlighted. Three A haplotype samples were submitted to DNA Sanger sequencing of β-globin gene and compared to sequences previously deposited in Genbank. One nucleotide deletion in intronic region was observed only in AA haplotype of Morada Nova animals, while in BB animals the nucleotide remained present. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of multiplex conventional PCR for ovine β-globin haplotype identification. The advantages of the developed conventional PCR are reduced reagents costs (less than a half price) and wider reachability, since even labs without real time PCR thermocyclers are able to offer this assay. Therefore, it may become an important tool for sheep producers to improve genetic selection of parasite resistant animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cintia Hiromi Okino
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.
| | - Lara Cristina Frizoni Caminotto
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Rafaela Tami Ikeda Kapritchkoff
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Simone Cristina Méo Niciura
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Sérgio Novita Esteves
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Isabella Barbosa Dos Santos
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - João Henrique Barbosa Toscano
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - M C S Oliveira
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - A C S Chagas
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Okino CH, Méo Niciura SC, Barbosa Toscano JH, Esteves SN, Dos Santos IB, von Haehling MB, Figueiredo A, de Sena Oliveira MC, Chagas ACDS. Ovine β-globin gene: A new qPCR for rapid haplotype identification and association with susceptibility to Haemonchus contortus infection. Vet Parasitol 2021; 294:109434. [PMID: 33957549 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Two β-globin allelic haplotypes (A and B) were identified in domestic sheep, wherein animals which are homozygous for βB allele (BB haplotype) have a deletion of pre-adult βC-globin and consequently are less tolerant to anemia and hypoxia. Since Haemonchus contortus infection, is associated with severe anemia, studies performed from 1960s to 1990s investigated the association between β-globin haplotype and resistance against this parasite. However, the findings were controversial, pointing out from increased resistance in animals harboring the βA allele to inexistence of association. Thus, our study aimed to develop a qPCR for β-globin haplotype identification, and to evaluate the association between β-globin haplotype and resistance against H. contortus in a group of sheep submitted to artificial infection with this parasite. A total of 286 lambs of Morada Nova breed were experimentally challenged with 4000 H. contortus L3 and monitored for 112 days from weaning. Significantly improved (p < 0.05) phenotypic profiles (lower fecal egg counts, higher packed cell volume and birthweight) were observed for AA haplotype animals, especially when compared to BB animals, while AB animals were similar to BB. This is the first report of a qPCR assay for ovine β-globin haplotype identification. In view of significant differences of phenotypic profiles between haplotype groups, the developed qPCR may constitute an important tool for sheep producers to improve genetic selection of parasite resistant animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cintia Hiromi Okino
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.
| | - Simone Cristina Méo Niciura
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - João Henrique Barbosa Toscano
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Sérgio Novita Esteves
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Isabella Barbosa Dos Santos
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marei Borsch von Haehling
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Amanda Figueiredo
- Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane, s/n, 14884-900, Jaboticabal, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Ana Carolina de Souza Chagas
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, Km 234 s/n, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, 13560-970, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bruscadin JJ, de Souza MM, de Oliveira KS, Rocha MIP, Afonso J, Cardoso TF, Zerlotini A, Coutinho LL, Niciura SCM, de Almeida Regitano LC. Muscle allele-specific expression QTLs may affect meat quality traits in Bos indicus. Sci Rep 2021; 11:7321. [PMID: 33795794 PMCID: PMC8016890 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86782-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located in transcript sequences showing allele-specific expression (ASE SNPs) were previously identified in the Longissimus thoracis muscle of a Nelore (Bos indicus) population consisting of 190 steers. Given that the allele-specific expression pattern may result from cis-regulatory SNPs, called allele-specific expression quantitative trait loci (aseQTLs), in this study, we searched for aseQTLs in a window of 1 Mb upstream and downstream from each ASE SNP. After this initial analysis, aiming to investigate variants with a potential regulatory role, we further screened our aseQTL data for sequence similarity with transcription factor binding sites and microRNA (miRNA) binding sites. These aseQTLs were overlapped with methylation data from reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS) obtained from 12 animals of the same population. We identified 1134 aseQTLs associated with 126 different ASE SNPs. For 215 aseQTLs, one allele potentially affected the affinity of a muscle-expressed transcription factor to its binding site. 162 aseQTLs were predicted to affect 149 miRNA binding sites, from which 114 miRNAs were expressed in muscle. Also, 16 aseQTLs were methylated in our population. Integration of aseQTL with GWAS data revealed enrichment for traits such as meat tenderness, ribeye area, and intramuscular fat . To our knowledge, this is the first report of aseQTLs identification in bovine muscle. Our findings indicate that various cis-regulatory and epigenetic mechanisms can affect multiple variants to modulate the allelic expression. Some of the potential regulatory variants described here were associated with the expression pattern of genes related to interesting phenotypes for livestock. Thus, these variants might be useful for the comprehension of the genetic control of these phenotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Jessica Bruscadin
- grid.411247.50000 0001 2163 588XPost-Graduation Program of Evolutionary Genetics and Molecular Biology, Center of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP Brazil
| | - Marcela Maria de Souza
- grid.34421.300000 0004 1936 7312Post-Doctoral Fellow, Department of Animal Science, Iowa State University, Ames, IA USA
| | - Karina Santos de Oliveira
- grid.411247.50000 0001 2163 588XPost-Graduation Program of Evolutionary Genetics and Molecular Biology, Center of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP Brazil
| | - Marina Ibelli Pereira Rocha
- grid.411247.50000 0001 2163 588XPost-Graduation Program of Evolutionary Genetics and Molecular Biology, Center of Biological Sciences and Health, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP Brazil
| | - Juliana Afonso
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Animal Science, University of São Paulo/ESALQ, Piracicaba, SP Brazil
| | - Tainã Figueiredo Cardoso
- grid.460200.00000 0004 0541 873XEmbrapa Pecuária Sudeste, P. O. Box 339, São Carlos, SP 13564-230 Brazil
| | - Adhemar Zerlotini
- grid.460200.00000 0004 0541 873XEmbrapa Informática Agropecuária, Campinas, SP Brazil
| | - Luiz Lehmann Coutinho
- grid.11899.380000 0004 1937 0722Department of Animal Science, University of São Paulo/ESALQ, Piracicaba, SP Brazil
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
de Souza MM, Zerlotini A, Rocha MIP, Bruscadin JJ, Diniz WJDS, Cardoso TF, Cesar ASM, Afonso J, Andrade BGN, Mudadu MDA, Mokry FB, Tizioto PC, de Oliveira PSN, Niciura SCM, Coutinho LL, Regitano LCDA. Allele-specific expression is widespread in Bos indicus muscle and affects meat quality candidate genes. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10204. [PMID: 32576896 PMCID: PMC7311436 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67089-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 05/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Differences between the expression of the two alleles of a gene are known as allele-specific expression (ASE), a common event in the transcriptome of mammals. Despite ASE being a source of phenotypic variation, its occurrence and effects on genetic prediction of economically relevant traits are still unexplored in bovines. Furthermore, as ASE events are likely driven by cis-regulatory mutations, scanning them throughout the bovine genome represents a significant step to elucidate the mechanisms underlying gene expression regulation. To address this question in a Bos indicus population, we built the ASE profile of the skeletal muscle tissue of 190 Nelore steers, using RNA sequencing data and SNPs genotypes from the Illumina BovineHD BeadChip (770 K bp). After quality control, 820 SNPs showed at least one sample with ASE. These SNPs were widespread among all autosomal chromosomes, being 32.01% found in 3'UTR and 31.41% in coding regions. We observed a considerable variation of ASE profile among individuals, which highlighted the need for biological replicates in ASE studies. Functional analysis revealed that ASE genes play critical biological functions in the development and maintenance of muscle tissue. Additionally, some of these genes were previously reported as associated with beef production and quality traits in livestock, thus indicating a possible source of bias on genomic predictions for these traits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marcela Maria de Souza
- Animal Biotechnology, Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.,Post-graduate Program of Evolutionary Genetics and Molecular Biology, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Adhemar Zerlotini
- Bioinformatic Multi-user Laboratory, Embrapa Informática Agropecuária, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Marina Ibelli Pereira Rocha
- Animal Biotechnology, Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.,Post-graduate Program of Evolutionary Genetics and Molecular Biology, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Jennifer Jessica Bruscadin
- Animal Biotechnology, Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.,Post-graduate Program of Evolutionary Genetics and Molecular Biology, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Wellison Jarles da Silva Diniz
- Animal Biotechnology, Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.,Post-graduate Program of Evolutionary Genetics and Molecular Biology, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Juliana Afonso
- Animal Biotechnology, Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.,Post-graduate Program of Evolutionary Genetics and Molecular Biology, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | - Fabiana Barichello Mokry
- Animal Biotechnology, Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.,Post-graduate Program of Evolutionary Genetics and Molecular Biology, Federal University of São Carlos, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Niciura SCM, Cruvinel GG, Moraes CV, Bressani FA, Malagó Junior W, Benavides MV, de Chagas ACS. PCR-based genotyping of SNP markers in sheep. Mol Biol Rep 2018; 45:651-656. [PMID: 29869739 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-018-4206-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/31/2018] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) are the main type of variation in genome, enabling them to be associated with traits of economic importance in livestock. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have led to the discovery of SNPs associated with desirable traits in sheep. However, in these studies, SNPs are genotyped by high-throughput methods in genome scale, which are expensive and require sophisticated equipment and analysis methods. Therefore, the goal of this study was to develop a reliable, rapid, and inexpensive polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based method to genotype a medium number of animals for a few candidate SNPs previously associated with desirable phenotypes in sheep by GWAS, using markers associated with gastrointestinal nematode resistance as a model. DNA extracted from white-blood cells of 150 sheep was submitted to PCR amplification followed by agarose gel electrophoresis and determination of banding pattern. Tetra-primer ARMS-PCR was successfully optimized after changes in annealing temperature; annealing and extension times; concentration of MgCl2 and DNA; ratios of inner, outer, forward and reverse primer; and addition of adjuvants, for genotyping the OAR2_14765360, OAR6_81718546, OAR11_62887032, and OAR12_69606944 SNPs in sheep. An extensive optimization of tetra-primer ARMS-PCR resulted in a suitable, simple, cost-effective PCR-based method of genotyping four SNP markers previously detected by chip arrays.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Cristina Méo Niciura
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, km 234, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, São Carlos, SP, CEP 13560-970, Brazil.
| | | | - Caroline Valério Moraes
- Universidade Federal de São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luiz, km 235, São Carlos, SP, CEP 13566-905, Brazil
| | - Flavia Aline Bressani
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, km 234, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, São Carlos, SP, CEP 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Wilson Malagó Junior
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, km 234, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, São Carlos, SP, CEP 13560-970, Brazil
| | - Magda Vieira Benavides
- Embrapa Pecuária Sul, Rodovia BR-153, Km 632,9, Vila Industrial, Bagé, RS, CEP 96401-970, Brazil
| | - Ana Carolina Souza de Chagas
- Embrapa Pecuária Sudeste, Rodovia Washington Luiz, km 234, Fazenda Canchim, PO Box 339, São Carlos, SP, CEP 13560-970, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Mokry FB, Buzanskas ME, de Alvarenga Mudadu M, do Amaral Grossi D, Higa RH, Ventura RV, de Lima AO, Sargolzaei M, Conceição Meirelles SL, Schenkel FS, da Silva MVGB, Méo Niciura SC, de Alencar MM, Munari D, de Almeida Regitano LC. Linkage disequilibrium and haplotype block structure in a composite beef cattle breed. BMC Genomics 2014; 15 Suppl 7:S6. [PMID: 25573652 PMCID: PMC4243187 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-15-s7-s6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The development of linkage disequilibrium (LD) maps and the characterization of haplotype block structure at the population level are useful parameters for guiding genome wide association (GWA) studies, and for understanding the nature of non-linear association between phenotypes and genes. The elucidation of haplotype block structure can reduce the information of several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) into the information of a haplotype block, reducing the number of SNPs in a coherent way for consideration in GWA and genomic selection studies. Results The maximum average LD, measured by r2 varied between 0.33 to 0.40 at a distance of < 2.5 kb, and the minimum average values of r2 varied between 0.05 to 0.07 at distances ranging from 400 to 500 kb, clearly showing that the average r2 reduced with the increase in SNP pair distances. The persistence of LD phase showed higher values at shorter genomic distances, decreasing with the increase in physical distance, varying from 0.96 at a distance of < 2.5 kb to 0.66 at a distance from 400 to 500 kb. A total of 78% of all SNPs were clustered into haplotype blocks, covering 1,57 Mb of the total autosomal genome size. Conclusions This study presented the first high density linkage disequilibrium map and haplotype block structure for a composite beef cattle population, and indicates that the high density SNP panel over 700 k can be used for genomic selection implementation and GWA studies for Canchim beef cattle.
Collapse
|
15
|
Mokry FB, Higa RH, de Alvarenga Mudadu M, Oliveira de Lima A, Meirelles SLC, Barbosa da Silva MVG, Cardoso FF, Morgado de Oliveira M, Urbinati I, Méo Niciura SC, Tullio RR, Mello de Alencar M, Correia de Almeida Regitano L. Genome-wide association study for backfat thickness in Canchim beef cattle using Random Forest approach. BMC Genet 2013; 14:47. [PMID: 23738659 PMCID: PMC3680339 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2156-14-47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2013] [Accepted: 05/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Meat quality involves many traits, such as marbling, tenderness, juiciness, and backfat thickness, all of which require attention from livestock producers. Backfat thickness improvement by means of traditional selection techniques in Canchim beef cattle has been challenging due to its low heritability, and it is measured late in an animal’s life. Therefore, the implementation of new methodologies for identification of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) linked to backfat thickness are an important strategy for genetic improvement of carcass and meat quality. Results The set of SNPs identified by the random forest approach explained as much as 50% of the deregressed estimated breeding value (dEBV) variance associated with backfat thickness, and a small set of 5 SNPs were able to explain 34% of the dEBV for backfat thickness. Several quantitative trait loci (QTL) for fat-related traits were found in the surrounding areas of the SNPs, as well as many genes with roles in lipid metabolism. Conclusions These results provided a better understanding of the backfat deposition and regulation pathways, and can be considered a starting point for future implementation of a genomic selection program for backfat thickness in Canchim beef cattle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Barichello Mokry
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Federal University of São Carlos, Rodovia Washington Luiz, km 235, PO BOX 676, 13565-905, São Carlos, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Niciura SCM, Veríssimo CJ, Gromboni JGG, Rocha MIP, de Mello SS, Barbosa CMP, Chiebao DP, Cardoso D, Silva GS, Otsuk IP, Pereira JR, Ambrosio LA, Nardon RF, Ueno TEH, Molento MB. F200Y polymorphism in the β-tubulin gene in field isolates of Haemonchus contortus and risk factors of sheep flock management practices related to anthelmintic resistance. Vet Parasitol 2012; 190:608-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2012.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2012] [Revised: 07/11/2012] [Accepted: 07/12/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
17
|
Saraiva NZ, Oliveira CS, Tetzner TAD, de Lima MR, de Melo DS, Niciura SCM, Garcia JM. Chemically assisted enucleation results in higher G6PD expression in early bovine female embryos obtained by somatic cell nuclear transfer. Cell Reprogram 2012; 14:425-35. [PMID: 22908977 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2011.0077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite extensive efforts, low efficiency is still an issue in bovine somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). The hypothesis of our study was that the use of cytoplasts produced by chemically assisted enucleation (EN) would improve nuclear reprogramming in nuclear transfer (NT)-derived embryos because it results in lower damage and higher cytoplasm content than conventional EN. For that purpose, we investigated the expression of two X-linked genes: X inactive-specific transcript (XIST) and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD). In the first experiment, gene expression was assessed in day-7 female blastocysts from embryonic cell NT (ECNT) groups [conventional, ECNT conv; chemically assisted, ECNT deme (demecolcine)]. Whereas in the ECNT conv group, only one embryo (25%; n=4) expressed XIST transcripts, most embryos showed XIST expression (75%; n=4) in the ECNT deme group. However, no significant differences in transcript abundance of XIST and G6PD were found when comparing the embryos from all groups. In a second experiment using somatic cells as nuclear donors, we evaluated gene expression profiles in female SCNT-derived embryos. No significant differences in relative abundance (RA) of XIST transcripts were observed among the groups. Nonetheless, higher (p<0.05) levels of G6PD were observed in SCNT deme and in vitro-derived groups in comparison to SCNT conv. To know whether higher G6PD expression in embryos derived from SCNT chemically assisted EN indicates higher metabolism in embryos considered of superior quality or if the presence of higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels generated by the increased oxygen consumption triggers G6PD activation, the expression of genes related to stress response should be investigated in embryos produced by that technique.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naiara Zoccal Saraiva
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Jaboticabal, Brazil.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|