International Journal of Molecular Veterinary Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 244-253 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmvr 246 makeup of both domestic dogs and wild canids. It has been used to identify genome-wide patterns of deleterious variation and to create detailed maps of structural variations (Marsden et al., 2015; Serres-Armero et al., 2017). Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are another critical method, particularly useful for identifying loci associated with specific traits and disease susceptibilities. For example, a CNV-based GWAS identified 96 loci with copy number differences across dog breeds, which are associated with breed-specific morphometrics and disease susceptibilities (Serres-Armero et al., 2021). Additionally, transcriptome analysis using RNA-Seq technology helps in understanding gene expression differences between dogs and wolves, providing insights into their immune responses and other physiological traits (Koch et al., 2016; Yang et al., 2018). Genetic variations, including single nucleotide variants, structural variations, and copy number variations, play a significant role in the disease resistance of canids. Key genes such as ADGRE1 and AKR1B1 have been identified as crucial for immune function and adaptation. Advanced genetic analysis methods like Whole Genome Sequencing and Genome-Wide Association Studies are essential tools for uncovering the genetic basis of disease resistance in canids. These findings highlight the complex interplay between genetics and disease resistance, influenced by domestication and selective breeding practices. 3 Comparative Analysis of Wild Wolves and Domestic Dogs 3.1 Evolutionary pathways and genetic divergence The evolutionary pathways of wild wolves and domestic dogs have diverged significantly due to domestication. Structural variations (SVs) in the genome have played a crucial role in this divergence, influencing phenotypic evolution, disease susceptibility, and environmental adaptations. For instance, the dog genome has accumulated specific insertions, deletions, and repeats that are not present in wolves, such as a novel copy of the AKR1B1 gene, which is involved in fatty acid synthesis and antioxidant ability, likely in response to dietary shifts during domestication (Wang et al., 2018; Wei, 2018). Additionally, copy number variations (CNVs) have been identified in both dogs and wolves, with significant differences in loci responsible for sensory perception, immune response, and metabolic processes (Figure 2) (Serres-Armero et al., 2017; Serres-Armero et al., 2021). Figure 2 Landscape of canine segmental duplications (Adopted from Serres-Armero et al., 2017) Image caption: a Genome-wide map of canine SDs. Autosomes are represented by horizontal bars, and each mark represent a duplicated region identified in at least one sample of the group indicated. b Total length of genomic duplications identified per subspecies. c Venn diagram showing intersection of duplicated regions identified in dogs, gray wolves and canines in the outgroup (chrUn excluded) (Adopted from Serres-Armero et al., 2017)
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