Climate Resilience in Farm Animals: Transcriptomics-Based Alterations in Differentially Expressed Genes and Stress...

Area of Science:

• Livestock Genetics and Genomics
• Climate Change Adaptation
• Animal Physiology

Background:

• Climate change poses significant threats to global livestock production, impacting feed, disease, heat stress, and biodiversity.
• Current management and dietary interventions offer limited long-term solutions for livestock adaptation.
• A deeper understanding of animal adaptation mechanisms is crucial for sustainable livestock systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advancements in gene expression analysis for livestock adaptation to climate change.
• To identify transcriptomic biomarkers and differences related to species and breeding.
• To explore the potential of emerging technologies for enhancing livestock resilience.

Main Methods:

• Review of studies utilizing gene expression analysis (transcriptomics) in livestock.
• Analysis of transcriptomic data to understand adaptation pathways.
• Identification of biomarkers for thermoresilience and productivity.

Main Results:

• Gene expression analysis uncovers essential pathways for livestock adaptation to environmental stressors.
• Transcriptomic differences exist between species and within pure/crossbred animals, offering breeding targets.
• Emerging technologies like spatialomics show promise for accelerating genetic improvements.

Conclusions:

• Transcriptomic studies are vital for understanding and enhancing livestock adaptation to climate change.
• Identifying thermoresilient animals through gene expression analysis can inform precise breeding programs.
• Integrating advanced technologies will be key to developing sustainable and productive livestock for future climate conditions.