International Journal of Molecular Veterinary Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 244-253 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmvr 249 differences highlight the complex interplay between environment, behavior, and genetics in shaping disease resistance in canids. Figure3 DistributionofsamplesofEurasiangreywolves(redcircles)andfree-rangingdogs(greencircles)analysedinthisstudy (Adopted from Pilot et al., 2021) Image caption: Geographic locations of samples are precise except Mongolian wolves and free-ranging dogs from China and Portugal, which have approximate locations. The number of samples collected from the same locations is reflected by the circle size. The introgression pattern analysis was carried out for West Eurasian wolves (marked with the red frame) and all free-ranging dogs shown on the map that carried introgressed chromosomal fragments. Among East Asian wolves (black frame), only four admixed individuals were found, including an F1 hybrid (Adopted from Pilot et al., 2021) 6 Case Study: Rabies Resistance in Wild Wolves 6.1 Genetic and epidemiological insights into rabies resistance Rabies is a significant viral disease affecting both domestic and wild canids. In wild wolves, genetic variations and epidemiological factors play crucial roles in their resistance to rabies. Studies have shown that wild wolves, like other wild carnivores, can be reservoirs for the rabies virus (RABV). For instance, an outbreak in the Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa highlighted the presence of canid RABVs in wild dogs and other carnivores, suggesting a complex interaction between wild and domestic animals in the transmission dynamics of rabies (Sabeta et al., 2018). Genetic analyses of these viruses revealed phylogenetic clustering with RABVs from domestic dogs and other wild carnivores, indicating potential cross-species transmission and the importance of genetic monitoring in understanding rabies resistance. 6.2 Adaptive mechanisms in wolves compared to domestic dogs The genetic makeup of wild wolves has been shaped by natural selection, which may confer certain advantages in disease resistance compared to domestic dogs. Structural variations (SVs) in the genomes of wolves and dogs have been linked to differences in immune system function and disease susceptibility. For example, studies have identified specific SVs in dogs that are associated with immune response genes, which may differ from those in wolves due to the domestication process (Serres-Armero et al., 2017; Wang et al., 2018). Additionally, the presence of endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) in the genomes of canids, including wolves, suggests a historical adaptation to viral infections, which could influence their current resistance to diseases like rabies (Halo et al., 2019). 6.3 Implications for conservation and disease management Understanding the genetic and adaptive mechanisms underlying rabies resistance in wild wolves has significant implications for conservation and disease management. Conservation strategies should consider the genetic diversity and adaptive potential of wild wolf populations to ensure their resilience against diseases. Regular vaccination programs for at-risk wildlife, as well as monitoring and controlling rabies in domestic animals, are crucial to prevent outbreaks and protect endangered species (Sabeta et al., 2018). Moreover, maintaining large
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