Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Lwamkelekile Sitshilelo Mkize, Oliver Tendayi Zishiri
Summary: Indigenous cattle breeds like the Nguni play a crucial role in their native environments due to their significant adaptability traits. The genetic diversity within the bovine major histocompatibility complex and BoLA-DRB3 gene in Nguni crossbred cattle was found to be high, potentially contributing to their resistance to diseases and thermal stress. This high genetic diversity is likely associated with the adaptability and robustness of the Nguni breed, making it a valuable resource for sustainable breeding strategies in Southern Africa.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
David H. Mauki, Adeniyi C. Adeola, Said Ng'ang'a, Abdulfatai Tijjani, Ibikunle Mark Akanbi, Oscar J. Sanke, Abdussamad M. Abdussamad, Sunday C. Olaogun, Jebi Ibrahim, Philip M. Dawuda, Godwin F. Mangbon, Paul S. Gwakisa, Ting-Ting Yin, Min-Sheng Peng, Ya-Ping Zhang
Summary: This study analyzed the genetic diversity of cattle samples from Nigeria using both maternal and paternal DNA markers, revealing that Nigerian cattle are mainly clustered with African cattle and have a zebu haplogroup in terms of paternal analysis. There was no signal of maternal genetic structure in Nigerian cattle population, suggesting extensive genetic intermixing within the country.
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
C. Brekke, S. E. Johnston, A. B. Gjuvsland, P. Berg
Summary: This study investigates the variation in recombination rates between sexes and individual animals using pedigree information and genotype data in a large cattle population. The results show higher recombination rates in males compared to females, but little variation in recombination distribution between the sexes. Heritability analysis indicates a low but significant genetic contribution to recombination rates in both males and females. Additionally, two loci associated with individual recombination counts in females were identified.
JOURNAL OF DAIRY SCIENCE
(2023)
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Bhaveni B. B. Kooverjee, Pranisha Soma, Magrieta A. A. van der Nest, Michiel M. M. Scholtz, Frederick W. C. Neser
Summary: Climate change has a significant impact on livestock production, and the use of crossbreeding strategies can improve animal production under harsh environmental conditions. This study aimed to identify the genetic differences in crossbred cattle and found several genes related to adaptation in these crossbred animals. Crossbreeding is an important strategy for climate-smart beef production.
Article
Agronomy
Khanyisani S. Nxumalo, Paul Grobler, Karen Ehlers, Lucky T. Nesengani, Ntanganedzeni O. Mapholi
Summary: The study aimed to assess the genetic relationship between different ecotypes of indigenous South African sheep breed Nguni using SNP markers and compare them with other selected South African breeds. The genetic differences were observed among Nguni sheep populations, with the Zulu and Swazi populations clustering together and showing distinction from the Pedi ecotype. The study also revealed genetic admixtures in the Damara and Dorper sheep, most likely as a result of recent intermixing between indigenous and commercial breeds. The study provides important baseline information for establishing conservation and breeding programs for indigenous sheep breeds.
Article
Immunology
Fernando Flores Cardoso, Oswald Matika, Appolinaire Djikeng, Ntanganedzeni Mapholi, Heather M. Burrow, Marcos Jun Iti Yokoo, Gabriel Soares Campos, Claudia Cristina Gulias-Gomes, Valentina Riggio, Ricardo Pong-Wong, Bailey Engle, Laercio Porto-Neto, Azwihangwisi Maiwashe, Ben J. Hayes
Summary: This study evaluated tick resistance in multiple beef cattle breeds, revealing differences in genetic correlations and heritability among populations, as well as the potential benefits of multi-trait genomic selection. The multi-trait approach improved predictive ability and corrected over-dispersion of GEBV, showing promise for enhancing tick resistance in beef cattle through genomic selection.
FRONTIERS IN IMMUNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Cesar D. Petroli, Guntur V. Subbarao, Juan A. Burgueno, Tadashi Yoshihashi, Huihui Li, Jorge Franco Duran, Kevin V. Pixley
Summary: A study found that maize root systems release glycosides that can inhibit the activity of nitrifiers and reduce soil nitrate formation in the root zone. Through genetic variation analysis, several maize varieties with high glycoside activity and the ability to release glycosides were identified, and genetic markers associated with these traits were found, providing the possibility of improving glycoside activity in maize through marker-assisted selection.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2023)
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
K. A. Saravanan, Manjit Panigrahi, Harshit Kumar, Subhashree Parida, Bharat Bhushan, G. K. Gaur, Pushpendra Kumar, Triveni Dutt, B. P. Mishra, R. K. Singh
Summary: This study presents a comprehensive analysis of genetic diversity, ROH, inbreeding, linkage disequilibrium, effective population size, and haplotype block structure in Tharparkar cattle of India. The study reveals high genetic diversity in Tharparkar cattle but a gradual decline in effective population size over past generations.
ANIMAL BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Anna Wirth, Juergen Duda, Ottmar Distl
Summary: Modern breeding programs aim to improve productivity, functionality, and health traits in dairy cows. However, overuse of top sires may lead to a decline in the gene pool and increased inbreeding, highlighting the importance of monitoring genetic diversity. This study in German Brown population showed a high level of inbreeding and suggested strategies to decrease the rate of inbreeding for future breeding.
Article
Agronomy
Madalina-Alexandra Davidescu, Daniel Simeanu, Dragos-Lucian Gorgan, Mitica Ciorpac, Steofil Creanga
Summary: This study aimed to quantify the genetic diversity of the endangered Romanian Grey Steppe cattle breed. The results revealed the breed's ancestral descent from Bos taurus primigenius and identified five cattle with valuable genetic resources for the improvement of other breeds and biodiversity conservation.
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Andrea J. Slavney, Takeshi Kawakami, Meghan K. Jensen, Thomas C. Nelson, Aaron J. Sams, Adam R. Boyko
Summary: The study identified multiple genetic factors influencing coat pheomelanin intensity in domestic dogs, showcasing the complex multigenic nature of the trait. Through genome-wide association studies, new loci related to pheomelanin intensity were discovered, with a linear model explaining over 70% of the variation across different dog breeds.
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Henrique Alberto Mulim, Luiz F. Brito, Luis Fernando Batista Pinto, Jose Luis Moletta, Lilian Regina Da Silva, Victor Breno Pedrosa
Summary: This study performs the first genetic characterization of the Puruna breed in Southern Brazil, based on pedigree and genomic information. The results show that Puruna is genetically related to the Charolais, Canchim, and Angus breeds. The levels of inbreeding in Puruna were low, and important genes related to behavioral traits, heat tolerance, feed conversion rate, and reproduction were identified. Additionally, genes involved in growth pathways, carcass weight, meat quality, and marbling deposition were found in the Puruna breed.
FRONTIERS IN GENETICS
(2022)
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Baldomero Molina Flores, Maria Esperanza Camacho Vallejo, Juan Vicente Delgado Bermejo, Francisco Javier Navas Gonzalez, Maria del Amparo Martinez
Summary: The Egyptian Baladi cattle is a native taurine breed from the Nile Valley, known for its adaptability, high genetic diversity, and slight influence from Bos indicus. Rural communities in Upper Egypt have preserved this breed and implementing conservation and breeding programs is crucial for its preservation and improvement.
ANIMAL BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Guoping Shu, Gangqiang Cao, Niannian Li, Aifang Wang, Fang Wei, Ting Li, Li Yi, Yunbi Xu, Yibo Wang
Summary: This study characterized the genetic diversity and population structure of maize germplasm in the China Summer maize ecological region using molecular techniques. The inbred lines were divided into different supergroups, groups, and subgroups based on genetic data and tag-SNPs, with a significant contribution of North American germplasm in the breeding collection. Genomic differentiation and genetic diversity within subgroups were found to be large, and two predominant heterotic patterns were identified in the CSM region.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2021)
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
F. J. M. King, C. Visser, C. Banga
Summary: Knowledge of genetic variability among cattle populations is essential to gain insight into the adaptation mechanisms and to support the conservation of genetic resources. This study investigated the levels of genetic diversity and relationships between indigenous cattle breeds using genotyping techniques. The results showed that there was little genetic distance between Nguni populations, while Tuli and Boran populations were more divergent. Additionally, several genes related to adaptation and production traits were identified.
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Nompilo Lucia Hlongwane, Khanyisile Hadebe, Pranisha Soma, Edgar Farai Dzomba, Farai Catherine Muchadeyi
FRONTIERS IN GENETICS
(2020)
Editorial Material
Genetics & Heredity
Farai C. Muchadeyi, Eveline M. Ibeagha-Awemu, Ardeshir N. Javaremi, Gustavo A. Gutierrez Reynoso, Joram M. Mwacharo, Max F. Rothschild, Johann Soelkner
FRONTIERS IN GENETICS
(2020)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
E. F. Dzomba, M. Chimonyo, R. Pierneef, F. C. Muchadeyi
Summary: This study examined the frequency and distribution patterns of runs of homozygosity (ROH) in South African sheep breeds, finding that it corresponded to the breed history and selection pressures. Different breeds exhibited varying levels of autozygosity, with genes within ROH islands associated with important traits and predomestic selection factors.
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Magriet A. van der Nest, Nompilo Hlongwane, Khanyisile Hadebe, Wai-Yin Chan, Nicolaas A. van der Merwe, Lieschen De Vos, Ben Greyling, Bhaveni B. Kooverjee, Pranisha Soma, Edgar F. Dzomba, Michael Bradfield, Farai C. Muchadeyi
Summary: The study evaluated the genetic architecture of an admixed South African Simbra crossbred population and identified genomic regions showing signatures of selection. These regions contain genes affecting cattle health and production, potentially contributing to the phenotype of the Simbra hybrid cattle breed.
FRONTIERS IN GENETICS
(2021)
Article
Microbiology
Evelyn Madoroba, Kudakwashe Magwedere, Nyaradzo Stella Chaora, Itumeleng Matle, Farai Muchadeyi, Masenyabu Aletta Mathole, Rian Pierneef
Summary: The study aimed to determine microbial diversity in meat and meat products from different enterprises and meat types in South Africa. Results revealed diverse and highly variable microbial communities in animal products, which is crucial for food safety.
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Simon F. Lashmar, Donagh P. Berry, Rian Pierneef, Farai C. Muchadeyi, Carina Visser
Summary: Genomic selection in less-developed countries can be hindered by high genotyping costs, but imputation from lower to higher densities can reduce these costs. This study found that SNP selection strategies and density can significantly impact imputation accuracy in locally adapted cattle breeds. Ultimately, a genotyping panel of around 10,000 SNP chosen based on a combination of MAF and LD criteria can achieve a low error rate in genomic imputation for admixed breeds like the SA Drakensberger.
JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
T. Mafuna, P. Soma, A. M. Tsotetsi-Khambule, C. A. Hefer, F. C. Muchadeyi, O. M. M. Thekisoe, R. E. Pierneef
Summary: This study used metagenomic approach to investigate the gut microbiome of Haemonchus contortus field strains and its predilection site in Dohne Merino sheep. The research identified differences and similarities in bacterial composition between male and female H. contortus gut microbiomes, as well as the predominant genera in the abomasum of Dohne Merino sheep. The study provides insight into the complex interactions of different gastrointestinal nematode microbiomes with the host.
SCIENTIFIC REPORTS
(2021)
Review
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Vivien J. Chebii, Emmanuel A. Mpolya, Farai C. Muchadeyi, Jean-Baka Domelevo Entfellner
Summary: Ungulates are essential sources of food, labor, clothing, and transportation for humans, and they possess unique adaptive traits in various habitats. Genomics resources have helped identify genes associated with the adaptability of ungulates to their environments.
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Keabetswe Tebogo Ncube, Edgar Farai Dzomba, Khanyisile Hadebe, Pranisha Soma, Lorinda Frylinck, Farai Catherine Muchadeyi
Summary: South Africa is a major goat producing country in Africa, but there is still a growing demand for chevon. Despite being easily accessible and having health benefits, chevon is less preferred due to perceived low meat quality. This study investigates the carcass quality and associated genomic regions of different goat breeds in South Africa, providing insights for future breed improvement programs.
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Nyaradzo Stella Chaora, Khulekani Sedwell Khanyile, Kudakwashe Magwedere, Rian Pierneef, Frederick Tawi Tabit, Farai Catherine Muchadeyi
Summary: This study utilized gene sequencing and bioinformatics analysis to determine mislabeling of processed meat products using the mitochondrial 16S ribosomal RNA gene. The results showed that pork was the major contaminant in most meat samples. This method can be used to authenticate meat products and manage mislabeling.
Article
Food Science & Technology
Yangfan Ye, Evelyne Maes, Santanu Deb-Choudhury, Charles A. Hefer, Nicola M. Schreurs, Carolina E. Realini
Summary: This study compared the protein composition of lamb longissimus thoracis from six commercial forage production systems in New Zealand. The results showed that different production groups could be distinguished based on the abundances of 16 proteins. Furthermore, lamb loins from ewes were found to have higher abundances of some myofibrillar and sarcoplasmic proteins, while a diet of chicory and older age at slaughter were associated with lower abundances of some myofibrillar proteins.
Article
Agriculture, Dairy & Animal Science
Njabulo M. Dlamini, Edgar F. Dzomba, Mpumelelo Magawana, Sphamandla Ngcamu, Farai C. Muchadeyi
Summary: This study investigated the genetic diversity and similarities and differences within and between two conservation herds of the South African Nguni Cattle. The results showed reduced genetic diversity in the two herds, calling for measures to protect the diversity of the South African Nguni cattle.
Article
Microbiology
Marion Schoof, Maureen O'Callaghan, Charles Hefer, Travis R. Glare, Amber R. Paulson, Mark R. H. Hurst
Summary: This study demonstrates that Y. entomophaga RoeA activates the production of exoproteins (including Yen-Tc) and the ALC at the transcriptional level, providing empirical evidence for the link between ALC phage-like lysis cassettes and the release of large macro-molecular toxin complexes. This finding is important for understanding the regulation of bacterial virulence.
MICROBIOLOGY SPECTRUM
(2023)
Article
Food Science & Technology
Juliana A. S. Leite, Carlos A. Montoya, Evelyne Maes, Charles Hefer, Raul A. P. A. Cruz, Nicole C. Roy, Warren C. Mcnabb
Summary: This study investigated how heat treatments affect protein hydrolysis in the milk of ruminants and found that the effects vary depending on the species and heat treatment applied. Self-digestion increased the potential antithrombin peptides in bovine milk. These findings suggest the potential application of enhancing bioactive peptides in the industry.