Study of a New Pig Phenotype with Hairlessness and Lung Emphysema
Author Information
Author(s): Bruun Camilla S, Jørgensen Claus B, Bay Lene, Cirera Susanna, Jensen Henrik E, Leifsson Páll S, Nielsen Jens, Christensen Knud, Fredholm Merete
Primary Institution: Department of Basic Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Copenhagen
Hypothesis
Is the juvenile hairlessness and age-dependent emphysema in pigs caused by mutations in the ITGB6 and ITGAV genes?
Conclusion
The study characterized a new pig phenotype resembling a knockout phenotype in mice, but did not find evidence that the candidate genes ITGB6 and ITGAV are responsible for the observed traits.
Supporting Evidence
- The phenotype shows autosomal co-dominant inheritance.
- Linkage analysis confirmed the candidate region on SSC15.
- Histological examination revealed significant differences in skin and lung tissues between genotypes.
Takeaway
Some pigs have a special condition where they don't grow hair properly and have lung problems as they get older. Scientists looked for the genes that might cause this but didn't find the usual suspects.
Methodology
The study involved genetic mapping, linkage analysis, histological evaluation, and expression studies of candidate genes in an experimental population of pigs.
Limitations
The study did not identify a causative mutation in the candidate genes despite confirming the candidate region.
Participant Demographics
The pigs were descendants of a specific boar from a Danish herd.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website