Genomics and Applied Biology 2024, Vol.15, No.3, 132-141 http://bioscipublisher.com/index.php/gab 136 upregulating genes responsible for anti-inflammatory responses (Andreescu et al., 2018). This can be beneficial for managing inflammatory conditions in pets, including arthritis and skin disorders. Conversely, diets high in saturated fats may activate genes associated with fat storage and lipid accumulation, increasing the risk of obesity and cardiovascular issues. Genetic predispositions can further amplify these effects, making it essential to tailor macronutrient ratios according to the individual pet's genetic profile to optimize their health and longevity. Understanding the intricate relationship between macronutrient composition and gene expression allows for more precise dietary interventions, supporting the prevention and management of various health conditions in pets. 4 Case Studies in Nutritional Genomics of Pet Animals 4.1 Canine nutritional genomics: obesity and metabolism Canine obesity is a growing concern, as it significantly impacts a dog's overall health, lifespan, and quality of life. Nutritional genomics has become an essential tool in understanding the genetic and molecular underpinnings of obesity and metabolic dysfunction in dogs. Research shows that high-fat diets (HFDs) can induce profound changes in canine metabolism, with shifts in lipid and fatty acid metabolism being key contributors to obesity-related disorders. In one study, dogs fed a high-fat diet exhibited notable increases in body weight, hyperlipidemia, and impaired insulin sensitivity (Figure 2). Metabolomic analyses revealed altered levels of metabolites such as stearidonic acid and long-chain ceramides, which are involved in fat metabolism and energy regulation. These metabolic disruptions underline the complexity of obesity as a multi-faceted condition involving both genetic predisposition and dietary influences (Qu et al., 2022). Figure 2 Experimental design of the effects of high-fat diet (HFD) on obesity and metabolic disorders in dogs, and comparison of body weight and body fat data (Adapted from Qu et al., 2022) Image caption: In the experiment, 18 healthy male Beagles were randomly divided into a normal diet control group (NC) and a high-fat diet group (HFD) for a duration of 24 weeks. The study revealed that dogs in the HFD group experienced significant weight gain, with an approximate 60% increase in body weight after 24 weeks. Body Mass Index (BMI), Body Condition Score (BCS), and subcutaneous fat thickness were also significantly higher in the HFD group compared to the NC group (Adapted from Qu et al., 2022)
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