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Whole-genome resequencing identifies selection signatures during Hu sheep domestication and adaptation
  • +11
  • liming Zhao,
  • Lvfeng Yuan,
  • Fadi Li,
  • xiaoxue Zhang,
  • zongwu Ma,
  • Deyin Zhang,
  • Yukun Zhang,
  • Yuan Zhao,
  • Xiaolong Li,
  • Jiangbo Cheng,
  • Dan Xu,
  • Xiaobin Yang,
  • Xiuxiu Weng,
  • Weimin Wang
liming Zhao
Gansu Agricultural University
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Lvfeng Yuan
Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute
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Fadi Li
Lanzhou University
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xiaoxue Zhang
Gansu Agricultural University
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zongwu Ma
Gansu Agricultural University
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Deyin Zhang
Lanzhou University
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Yukun Zhang
Lanzhou University
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Yuan Zhao
Lanzhou University
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Xiaolong Li
Lanzhou University
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Jiangbo Cheng
Lanzhou University
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Dan Xu
Gansu Agricultural University
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Xiaobin Yang
Gansu Agricultural University
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Xiuxiu Weng
Lanzhou University
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Weimin Wang
Gansu Agricultural University

Corresponding Author:[email protected]

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Abstract

The phenotypic diversity resulting from the domestication of sheep has made a significant contribution to human civilization. Hu sheep are a local sheep breed unique to China. Here, we conducted whole-genome sequencing of 207 Hu sheep and compared them with the wild ancestors of domestic sheep (Asian mouflon) to investigate the sheep’s genetic characteristics and selection signatures. Based on six signatures of selection approaches, we detected genomic regions containing genes related to reproduction (BMPR1B, BMP2, PGFS, CYP19, CAMK4, GGT5, and GNAQ), vision (ALDH1A2, SAG, and PDE6B), nervous system (NAV1), and immune response (GPR35, SH2B2, PIK3R3, and HRAS), which could potentially be a target relevant to the domestication and selection of Hu sheep. Association analysis revealed that missense mutations in the GPR35 (GPR35 g.952651 A>G; GPR35 g.952496 C>T) and NAV1 (NAV1 g.84216190 C>T; NAV1 g.84227412 G>A) genes were significantly associated (P < 0.05) with immune and growth traits in Hu sheep populations, respectively. This research offers novel insights into Hu sheep selection characteristics during domestication and facilitates further genetic improvement and molecular investigations.