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Lessons from the canine Oxtr gene: populations, variants and functional aspects
M Bence1,2, P Marx3, E Szantai1
1Department of Medical Chemistry, Molecular Biology and Pathobiochemistry, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary.
Genes, Brain, and Behavior
|November 19, 2016
Summary
The oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene shows distinct variations in dogs compared to wolves, suggesting it was a target during domestication for selecting social behaviors and temperament.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Neuroscience
- Animal Behavior
Background:
- The oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene influences social behavior, stress, and cognition.
- Canine OXTR gene variants are understudied regarding their role in behavior, breeding, and domestication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize common variants of the canine OXTR gene.
- To investigate the potential role of OXTR in dog domestication and behavior selection.
Main Methods:
- Sequencing of wolf and dog samples to identify novel polymorphisms.
- Analysis of allelic distributions, linkage disequilibrium, and phylogenetic relationships (NJ tree).
- Assessment of mRNA expression and in vitro functional assays.
Main Results:
- Significant OXTR variations were found between dog breeds, free-ranging dogs, wolves, and golden jackals.
- Dog-specific OXTR alleles were identified.
- Evidence suggests OXTR was a target gene during domestication for temperament and social behavior.
Conclusions:
- Canine OXTR gene variations differ significantly across populations and species.
- OXTR polymorphisms are linked to nervous system function and behavior, supporting its role in dog domestication and selection for social traits.
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