International Journal of Molecular Zoology, 2024, Vol.14, No.6, 297-304 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmz 300 4.2 Immunogenomic variations in domestic breeds Domestic dog breeds exhibit distinct immunogenomic variations compared to their wild counterparts. The domestication process has led to structural variations (SVs) in the genome, which have significant implications for immune system function. For example, domestic dogs have been found to possess specific SVs, such as insertions and deletions, that are enriched in genes related to immune responses (Wang et al., 2018). Additionally, copy number variations (CNVs) in domestic dogs show significant differences from those in wild canids, with certain CNVs being associated with immune response genes (Serres-Armero et al., 2017). Despite the population bottlenecks during domestication, domestic dogs maintain a similar proportion of CNV loci as wild canids, suggesting selective pressures favoring these variations. 4.3 Host-pathogen co-evolution in wild vs. domestic canids The co-evolution of hosts and pathogens has led to distinct immunogenomic landscapes in wild and domestic canids (Canuti et al., 2022). In wild canids, the continuous exposure to a wide range of pathogens drives the evolution of diverse immune genes, enabling these animals to adapt to new and emerging infectious diseases (Quéméré et al., 2015). For instance, the red fox has shown susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2, highlighting the ongoing interaction between wild canids and novel pathogens (Porter et al., 2022). In contrast, domestic dogs have undergone significant genomic changes due to human-mediated selection, which has influenced their immune system. The domestication process has introduced new immune challenges, such as those related to close contact with humans and other domestic animals, leading to unique immunogenomic adaptations. 5 Case Study: Immune Adaptations in Sled Dogs 5.1 Unique immune gene profiles in sled dog breeds Sled dogs, such as the Alaskan malamute and Siberian husky, exhibit unique immune gene profiles that have evolved to support their demanding lifestyles in harsh environments. These breeds have been subject to both natural and artificial selection pressures, leading to distinct genetic adaptations. For instance, structural variations (SVs) in the dog genome, including insertions, deletions, and translocations, have been linked to immune system functions (Figure 2) (Wang et al., 2018). These SVs are enriched in genes associated with energy metabolism and immune responses, which are crucial for sled dogs that endure extreme cold and physical exertion (Zhao, 2018). Figure 2 Structural variation in the dog genome (Adopted from Wang et al., 2018) Image caption: (a) Circle diagram showing SVs detected by the dog-dhole alignment (yellow) and the dog-wolf alignment (black). (b) SVs in the dog genome by identified by multiz alignment. Each ring from the inner ring outwards represents translocations, insertions, deletions, repeats and inversions, respectively (Adopted from Wang et al., 2018)
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