A Reference Genome Assembly of Simmental Cattle, Bos taurus taurus.

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Animal Genetics
• Bioinformatics

Background:

• Genomics traditionally uses single reference genomes, which fail to capture species-wide genetic variation.
• Pangenomes, assemblies from multiple individuals, better represent species diversity.
• The Bovine Pangenome Consortium (BPC) aims to create comprehensive bovine genetic resources.

Purpose of the Study:

• To generate a high-quality, chromosome-scale, single-haplotype genome assembly for Simmental cattle.
• To contribute to the Bovine Pangenome Consortium's goal of capturing extensive cattle genetic diversity.
• To provide a valuable resource for understanding Simmental cattle genetics and broader bovine variation.

Main Methods:

• Trio binning was employed to assemble a complete single haplotype genome.
• The assembly was derived from an F1 bison-cattle hybrid fetus.
• High-throughput sequencing and advanced assembly algorithms were utilized.

Main Results:

• A complete chromosome-scale genome assembly (ARS_Simm1.0) for Simmental cattle was generated.
• The assembly has a total length of 2.86 Gb with a scaffold N50 of 102 Mb.
• The continuity of this assembly meets or surpasses current leading Bos taurus reference assemblies.

Conclusions:

• This Simmental genome assembly significantly enhances the representation of genetic diversity within the Bovine Pangenome.
• The ARS_Simm1.0 assembly serves as a valuable genomic resource for Simmental cattle and the broader cattle population.
• This work advances the BPC's objective of creating a more inclusive and representative bovine pangenome.