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Updated: May 10, 2026

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Assessing Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathy Species Barriers with an In Vitro Prion Protein Conversion Assay
Published on: March 10, 2015
Novel polymorphisms in ovine prion protein gene
H Meydan1, M M Ozkan, M A Yildiz
1Animal Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Ankara University, Ankara, Turkey. meydan@ankara.edu.tr
Animal Genetics
|June 21, 2013
Summary
This study identified 10 novel prion protein gene (PRNP) polymorphisms in Turkish sheep, revealing significant genetic diversity. These findings highlight the breed
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Veterinary Science
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The prion protein gene (PRNP) is crucial for animal health, particularly in relation to transmissible spongiform encephalopathies.
- Understanding PRNP polymorphism is essential for managing genetic diversity and disease resistance in sheep populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify novel PRNP gene polymorphisms in Turkish native sheep breeds.
- To compare ovine PRNP polymorphism in Turkey with global data.
- To investigate the genetic diversity of the prion gene locus in sheep.
Main Methods:
- Sequencing of the PRNP gene in 1110 clinically healthy sheep from 18 Turkish native breeds.
- Analysis of amino acid polymorphisms and silent mutations.
- Comparative analysis with existing global PRNP polymorphism data.
Main Results:
- Identified 10 novel PRNP polymorphisms (p.Gly94Gly, p.Leu128Ile, p.Met132Leu, p.Ser135Arg, p.Met137Val, p.Asn146Lys, p.Arg159Arg, p.Tyr160Asn, p.Gln163His, p.Thr193Ser).
- Observed high genetic diversity in the PRNP gene locus among Turkish sheep breeds.
- Turkish sheep breeds exhibit genetic similarities to both Asian and European sheep populations.
Conclusions:
- Turkish native sheep breeds possess significant genetic diversity within the PRNP gene.
- The PRNP genetic landscape in Turkey reflects a complex history of sheep domestication and migration.
- Further research into PRNP variations can inform breeding strategies for disease resistance and genetic resource preservation.
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