Local ancestry and selection in admixed Sanjiang cattle

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Animal Genetics
• Evolutionary Biology

Background:

• Sanjiang cattle are a vital native breed in central China, known for adaptability and economic importance.
• The genetic history and breed formation of Sanjiang cattle remain largely uncharacterized.
• Understanding their ancestry is crucial for conservation and breeding strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the genomic diversity and evolutionary history of Sanjiang cattle.
• To identify the ancestral components and their contribution to breed formation.
• To pinpoint genes associated with adaptive traits in Sanjiang cattle.

Main Methods:

• Whole-genome sequencing of 10 Sanjiang cattle.
• Comparative genomic analysis with 70 individuals from 5 global populations.
• Ancestral fragment inference, selective sweep analysis, and transcriptomic analysis.

Main Results:

• Sanjiang cattle exhibit a mixed ancestry: 55.6% indicine and 33.2% taurine, originating approximately 30 generations ago.
• Genomic analysis revealed genes linked to lipid metabolism, immune regulation, and stress response.
• Taurine ancestry may enhance meat quality, while indicine ancestry aids adaptation to heat.

Conclusions:

• Sanjiang cattle represent a valuable genetic resource with a complex mosaic genome.
• Their unique ancestry provides insights into adaptation and trait development in cattle.
• Findings support conservation efforts and inform selective breeding programs for Chinese native cattle.