Whole Genome Scan and Selection Signatures for Climate Adaptation in Yanbian Cattle

In a study conducted on nine Yanbian cattle, a breed native to Northern China known for its long, dense body hair and high intramuscular fat, researchers performed whole genome resequencing to understand their cold climate adaptation. The Yanbian cattle's genome was compared to that of the N'Dama cattle from Africa, which are adapted to tropical climates. The study identified 292 genes associated with cold adaptation in Yanbian cattle, with the strongest signals found in the CORT gene on BTA16, which is involved in stress response, and the FGF5 gene on BTA6, related to hair follicle development. Additionally, 487, 924, and 346 genes were identified when comparing Yanbian to N'Dama cattle using different statistical methods. Among these, the CD36 gene was highlighted for its role in fat digestion and absorption, which may be upregulated in cold conditions. The study concluded that the CORT, FGF5, and CD36 genes are key to the cold climate adaptation of Yanbian cattle.