Exploring transcriptomic mechanisms underlying pulmonary adaptation to diverse environments in Indian rams

Area of Science:

• Genomics
• Comparative Physiology
• Animal Science

Background:

• Changthangi sheep adapted to high altitudes (Ladakh) and Muzaffarnagri sheep to low altitudes (northern India).
• Investigating molecular mechanisms of pulmonary adaptation to diverse environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze gene expression profiles of lung tissues from two distinct sheep breeds.
• To understand the molecular basis of adaptation to high-altitude vs. lowland environments.

Main Methods:

• RNA sequencing of lung tissues from four biological replicates of each breed.
• Differential gene expression analysis and pathway analysis.
• Gene network analysis to identify key molecular interactions.

Main Results:

• Changthangi sheep lungs showed enriched immune response genes (cytokine signaling, NF-kB pathway) and linked to hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF).
• Muzaffarnagri sheep lungs exhibited enrichment in energy metabolism, homeostasis, and lung structure pathways (collagen formation, carbohydrate metabolism).
• Distinct transcriptomic profiles highlight breed-specific adaptations to environmental pressures.

Conclusions:

• Gene expression patterns reveal specialized molecular mechanisms for pulmonary adaptation in sheep.
• Findings provide insights into high-altitude adaptation in livestock.
• Understanding these adaptations can inform conservation and breeding strategies.