Whole-Genome Resequencing in Sheep: Applications in Breeding, Evolution, and Conservation

Abstract

Sheep (Ovis aries) were domesticated around 10,000 years ago and have since become an integral part of human agriculture, providing essential resources, such as wool, meat, and milk. Over the past century, advances in communication and agricultural productivity have driven the evolution of selective breeding practices, further enhancing the value of sheep in the global economy. Recently, the rapid development of whole-genome resequencing (WGR) technologies has significantly accelerated research in sheep molecular biology, facilitating the discovery of genetic underpinnings for critical traits. This review offers a comprehensive overview of the evolution of whole-genome resequencing and its application to sheep genetics. It explores the domestication and genetic origins of sheep, examines the genetic structure and differentiation of various sheep populations, and discusses the use of WGR in the development of genetic maps. In particular, the review highlights how WGR technology has advanced our understanding of key traits, such as wool production, lactation, reproductive performance, disease resistance, and environmental adaptability. The review also covers the use of WGR technology in the conservation and sustainable utilization of sheep genetic resources, offering valuable insights for future breeding programs aimed at enhancing the genetic diversity and resilience of sheep populations.

Keywords: genetic map; genetic resources; population genetic differentiation; sheep; trait association analysis; whole-genome resequencing.

Figure 1

Distribution of global sheep stocks. Note: Figure 1 is based on data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO, http://www.fao.org/faostat/en/#data/QA, accessed on 11 November 2024), illustrating the geographic distribution of sheep populations worldwide.

Figure 2

Whole-genome resequencing technology innovation process. Note: The image used in Figure 2 was sourced from the official website of some sequencing companies. The textual content in the figure was conceptualized based on our understanding of sequencing technologies.

Figure 3

Welcomed presentation of identified genes associated with important traits. Note: Figure 3 is based on the Sheep Trait Association Analysis section of this review, summarizing key genes associated with important traits such as wool quality, milk production, and reproductive performance in sheep.