Project description:We report the sequences bound to CENP-A in the dog genome (Canis familiaris) for high-throughput characterization of centromeric sequences. We compare these ChIPSeq reads (72 bp, single read) against a reference centromeric satellite DNA domain database for the dog genome, resulting in the annotation of sequence variation and estimated abundance of seven satellite families together with adjacent, non-satellite sequences. To study global patterns of sequence diversity and characterizing the subset of sequences correlated with centromere function, these sequences were evaluated relative to a comprehensive centromere sequence domain k-mer library. From this analysis, we identify functional sequence features from two satellite families (CarSat1 and CarSat2) that are defined by distinct arrays subtypes. Sequences bound to CENP-A in MDCK (dog) cell line
Project description:We report the presence of circulating miRNAs released by the filarial nematode Dirofilaria immitis into the host (Canis familiaris) bloodstream. MiRNA deep-sequencing combined with bioinformatics revealed over 200 mature miRNA sequences of potential nematode origin in Dirofilaria immitis-infected dog plasma in two independent analyses
Project description:We report the sequences bound to CENP-A in the dog genome (Canis familiaris) for high-throughput characterization of centromeric sequences. We compare these ChIPSeq reads (72 bp, single read) against a reference centromeric satellite DNA domain database for the dog genome, resulting in the annotation of sequence variation and estimated abundance of seven satellite families together with adjacent, non-satellite sequences. To study global patterns of sequence diversity and characterizing the subset of sequences correlated with centromere function, these sequences were evaluated relative to a comprehensive centromere sequence domain k-mer library. From this analysis, we identify functional sequence features from two satellite families (CarSat1 and CarSat2) that are defined by distinct arrays subtypes.
Project description:We report the presence of circulating miRNAs released by the filarial nematode Dirofilaria immitis into the host (Canis familiaris) bloodstream.
Project description:Remarkable progress has been achieved in understanding the mechanisms controlling sex determination, yet the cause for many Disorders of Sexual Development remains unknown. Of particular interest is a rare XX DSD subtype in which individuals are negative for SRY, the testis determining factor on the Y chromosome, yet develop testes or ovotestes, and both phenotypes occur in the same family. This is a naturally occurring disorder in humans and dogs (Canis lupus familiaris), and phenotypes in the canine XX DSD model are strikingly similar to those in this type of human XX DSD. The purposes of this study were to identify 1) a variant associated with XX DSD in the canine model and 2) gene expression alterations in canine embryonic gonads that could be informative to causation. Using a genome wide association study (GWAS) and whole genome sequencing (WGS), we identified a variant on Canis familiaris autosome 9 (CFA9) that is significantly associated with XX DSD in the canine model and in affected purebred dogs. This is the first marker and candidate mutation identified for inherited canine XX DSD, and it lies within the canine ortholog for the human disorder (OMIM 278850). Inheritance of the variant indicates that XX DSD is a complex trait in which breed genetic background affects penetrance. Furthermore, the homozygous variant genotype is associated with embryonic lethality in at least one breed. Gene expression studies (RNA-seq and PRO-seq) in embryonic gonads at risk of XX DSD from the canine model identified significant RSPO1 downregulation without significant upregulation of SOX9 or other known testis pathway genes. A novel mechanism is proposed in which the canine XX DSD mutation acts upstream of RSPO1 to induce epigenomic gonadal mosaicism.
Project description:Through thousands of years of breeding and strong human selection, the dog (Canis lupus familiaris) exists today within hundreds of closed populations throughout the world, each with defined phenotypes. A singular geographic region with broad diversity in dog breeds presents an interesting opportunity to observe potential mechanisms of breed formation. Italy claims 14 internationally recognized dog breeds, with numerous additional local varieties. To determine the relationship among Italian dog populations, we integrated genetic data from 263 dogs representing 23 closed dog populations from Italy, seven Apennine gray wolves. Using 142,840 genome-wide SNPs, this dataset was used in the identification of breed development routes for the Italian breeds that included divergence from common populations for a specific purpose, admixture of regional stock with that from other regions, and isolated selection of local stock with specific attributes.