Structural Variants Selected during Yak Domestication Inferred from Long-Read Whole-Genome Sequencing

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Animal Genetics
• Evolutionary Biology

Background:

• Structural variants (SVs) are crucial for natural and artificial selection in animal populations.
• Understanding SVs in domestic animals can reveal genetic adaptations during domestication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a chromosome-scale reference genome for the domestic yak (Bos grunniens).
• To construct a comprehensive genetic SV map for yaks.
• To identify SVs associated with artificial selection during yak domestication.

Main Methods:

• Generated a chromosome-scale reference genome for domestic yak with improved contiguity and scaffolding.
• Acquired long-read resequencing data from wild and domestic yaks.
• Constructed a genetic SV map encompassing 372,220 SVs across the yak's geographic range.

Main Results:

• The domestic yak genome exhibits superior contiguity and scaffolding compared to other ruminant genomes.
• A large SV map was created, revealing SVs often contain repetitive sequences and are located near genes.
• Comparison between wild and domestic yaks identified SVs in genes related to nervous system, behavior, immunity, and reproduction, suggesting artificial selection.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a high-quality reference genome and SV map for domestic yaks.
• Identified potential genetic targets of artificial selection during yak domestication, particularly for high-altitude adaptation.
• Highlights the significant role of SVs in animal domestication and adaptation.