The domestic pig (Sus scrofa) is a member of the family of Suidae, a group of pig species from the order of Cetartiodactyla. S. scrofa is important both as a food source and as a biomedical model because of its similarity to humans in body size, anatomy, physiology, metabolism, pathology, and pharmacology. Of this family, S. scrofa is the only species that was domesticated. Sequencing its genome was initiated with the establishment of the Swine Genome Sequencing Consortium (SGSC) in September 2003, following the successful generation of genetic and physical maps for the pig. Genome sequences have become integral to the discovery of molecular genetic variation and the development of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays and have enabled the dissection of the genetic control of complex traits such as growth, feed conversion, body composition, reproduction, behavior and responses to infectious diseases.

CD Genomics is a leading service provider for agricultural genomics research, offering reliable porcine genome sequencing services to support research and breeding efforts in the field of porcine genomics for clients worldwide. Our services help promote pig breeding and biomedical research.

Our porcine genome sequencing service

CD Genomics offers comprehensive and customizable genome sequencing services for wild boars and domestic pigs. We utilize advanced next-generation sequencing and long-read sequencing technology platforms, as well as bioinformatics tools to perform whole-genome shotgun sequencing on different porcine breeds to provide reliable data support for genomic and other research on porcine genome structure, organization, and function.

Our services cover all stages of the sequencing process, from library preparation to data analysis. Strict quality control measures are adopted to ensure the accuracy and reliability of sequencing results, providing researchers with reliable porcine genome sequences.

We can sequence the genomes of multiple pig species, including but not limited to:

What we offer

Based on our state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and a team of highly skilled scientists, we offer a range of services covering the entire genome sequencing process.

• Genome assembly and annotation

By utilizing the latest long-read technologies, genome-wide shotgun strategies, and sophisticated bioinformatics tools, we can accurately assemble and annotate the vast amount of genetic information encoded in pig DNA. We aim to help you understand the molecular mechanisms underlying complex traits such as adaptive evolution and comparative genomics in pigs.

• Genetic variation analysis

We use advanced algorithms and computational tools to analyze genetic variation within the pig genome. This analysis includes the identification of SNPs, insertion-deletion (indel) variants, and structural variants that contribute to phenotypic differences between individuals.

• Functional genomics and transcriptomics

We provide transcriptomics data for studying the functional components of the pig genome and their regulatory mechanisms. By analyzing gene expression through techniques such as RNA-seq, we can identify genes that are active in specific tissues or under specific conditions.

• Comparative genomics

Our experts analyze the pig genome in comparison to other closely related species, such as humans and mice. By identifying conserved regions and evolutionary changes, we can reveal the genetic basis of shared traits as well as species-specific characteristics.

Applications of porcine genome sequencing

Our porcine genome sequencing can be used for a wide range of research in porcine genetics and veterinary medicine. By deciphering the porcine genome, we help you gain information on the genetic basis of various traits, diseases, and adaptations in pigs.

• Improving pig breeding strategies

The pig genome can be used as a roadmap for enhancing breeding programs and optimizing traits required for pig populations. By identifying genetic markers associated with economically important traits such as meat quality, disease resistance, and reproductive performance, CD Genomics empowers breeders to make informed decisions when selecting quality breeding stock.

• Disease resistance and health monitoring

Sequencing the pig genome plays a critical role in understanding the genetic factors underlying disease susceptibility and resistance in pigs. By identifying specific genetic markers associated with disease resistance, breeders can implement targeted breeding strategies to develop more resistant pig breeds.

• Biomedical research and human health

The similarities between the pig and human genomes make pigs a valuable model for biomedical research. Sequencing the porcine genome has facilitated the study of human diseases such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, and diabetes by providing insights into the genetic mechanisms behind these diseases. In addition, the porcine genome offers opportunities for xenotransplantation research aimed at overcoming the shortage of human transplant organs.

Case study of porcine genome sequencing

For 10,000 years, pigs and humans have had a close and complex relationship. Researchers provide a high-quality draft pig genome sequence developed under the auspices of the Swine Genome Sequencing Consortium, established using bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) and whole-genome shotgun (WGS) sequences. They assembled and analyzed the genome sequence of the female domestic Duroc pig (Sus scrofa) and compared it with the genomes of wild boars and domestic pigs in Europe and Asia.

• Genetic differences and nucleotide diversity: The researchers found millions of SNPs in the genomes of the wild boar studied. Notably, the number of SNPs in Asian wild boars was significantly higher than in European wild boars. This observation suggests that Asian wild boars have higher nucleotide diversity, suggesting a more diverse ancestral population.
• Phylogenetic analysis: Phylogenetic analysis of wild boar and domestic pig genomes reveals distinct Asian and European lineages.
• Gene flow and population bottlenecks: The study also reveals evidence of gene flow between northern Chinese wild boar and European wild boar populations throughout the Pleistocene. This suggests that migration and interbreeding occurred between these areas, thereby contributing to the genetic diversity of both populations.

Fig. 1. Demographic history of wild boars. (Groenen et al., 2012)

CD Genomics is committed to providing reliable porcine genome sequencing services. Genome sequencing is important for effective breeding of pigs for economically important traits such as disease resistance, productivity, growth rate, and meat quality. If you are interested, please feel free to contact us.

Reference

1. Groenen, Martien AM, et al. Analyses of pig genomes provide insight into porcine demography and evolution. Nature. 491.7424 (2012): 393-398.