| 描述信息 |
The advent of transcriptomics has significantly advanced the understanding of the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying various physiological and pathological conditions in livestock (Chakraborty et al., 2022). Dairy cattle, in particular, benefit from this technology as it enables the identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and the characterization of their associated pathways. Such insights are critical for enhancing breed-specific traits, improving disease resistance, and increasing adaptability to environmental stresses (Maru et al., 2024). This study focuses on Kerala's crossbred and Vechur cattle, two distinct populations with unique genetic backgrounds and adaptive characteristics. Crossbred cattle in Kerala result from breeding between indigenous cattle and exotic high-yielding dairy breeds such as Holstein Friesian, Jersey and Brown Swiss (Lali and Anilkumar, 2019). These crossbreds are known for their superior milk production capabilities but often face challenges related to heat stress, disease susceptibility, and overall adaptability to the local environment (Chacko and Kishore, 1998). On the other hand, Vechur cattle, the only indigenous breed of Kerala, are renowned for their exceptional heat tolerance, disease resistance, and ability to thrive on limited nutritional inputs (Iype, 1996; Raghunandanan, 2006). Despite their lower milk yield compared to crossbreds, Vechur cattle's resilience and hardiness make them invaluable to sustainable dairy farming in the region. This study employs advanced transcriptomic techniques to delve into the genetic and molecular differences between crossbred and Vechur cattle. By identifying DEGs and characterizing the biological pathways they influence, we aim to uncover the genetic factors responsible for the observed phenotypic traits in these cattle populations. The transcriptomic analysis involves the extraction and sequencing of RNA from both cattle types, followed by bioinformatics analysis to identify DEGs and their functional annotations. The objectives of this research are multifaceted. Firstly, it seeks to identify genes that are differentially expressed between crossbred and Vechur cattle, providing a molecular basis for their distinct phenotypes. Secondly, it aims to characterize the pathways these genes are involved in, which will elucidate the biological processes contributing to traits such as disease resistance. Understanding these pathways is crucial for developing targeted breeding programs that can enhance productivity while preserving the resilience and adaptability of the cattle. This study also contributes to the genetic improvement of dairy cattle in Kerala by highlighting the importance of preserving indigenous breeds like Vechur cattle while optimizing the genetic potential of crossbreds and sets a precedent for similar research in other regions. |
