News
A new turkey genome sequence
Scientists from Wageningen University & Research, Animal Breeding and Genomics (WUR-ABG) and Hendrix Genetics (Hybrid Turkeys) have used a novel sequencing technology to produce a high-quality DNA sequence of the domestic turkey (Meleagris gallopavo). Their findings were published in the GigaScience journal.
A good reference genome is key for turkey genetics and genomics research because it serves as the foundational map for studying the turkey’s genetic makeup. It is important to identify variations within the genome, for example mutations and structural changes, which are crucial for understanding genetic diversity and to identify molecular markers for breeding programs aimed at improving desirable traits in turkeys. In addition, comparative genomics with related species becomes possible, shedding light on the evolutionary history and unique adaptations of turkeys.
Reconstructing the turkey genome using trio-binning sequencing
Each individual inherits one set of genetic information (haplotype) from their mother and another set from their father. With a new sequencing technique called ‘trio-binning’ the scientists were able to reconstruct the two independent haplotypes from a crossbred turkey (F1), which is a cross between two turkey breeding lines. Martijn Derks, lecturer at WUR-ABG and co-author of the article: ‘We sequenced the DNA of the crossbred F1 animal using PacBio long read sequencing and the parents using short read sequencing. By combining the long-read data from the F1 and the sequence information from the parents we were able to map both the paternal and maternal haplotype sequence with high accuracy and assess structural differences between the two parental haplotypes.’
Progress in assembling turkey microchromosomes
One factor of complexity in bird genomes is the presence of microchromosomes, which are small and complex chromosomes that are historically very difficult to assemble. But the scientist were not afraid of a challenge. Derks: ‘In this study we provide a chromosome level turkey genome assembly that includes 25 of the microchromosomes which show an enrichment of genes compared to larger chromosomes. A high-quality assembly of the turkey genome, including the microchromosomes, will yield valuable insights into turkey genetics, evolution, and the genetic basis of complex traits. These findings can greatly benefit breeding programs aimed at enhancing the health and productivity of domestic turkey populations.’