DEVELOPMENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL EPIGENETIC REGULATION OF GENE EXPRESSION IN PIG TISSUES

The long-term goal of this research is to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that control phenotypic variation in economically important pig production traits. We will use whole-genome bisulfite sequencing (WGBS) and computational techniques to assess genome-wide patterns of DNA methylation across pig tissues and developmental stages, and determine their association with transcript abundance and other chromatin modifications. Such information will aid in identification of regulatory elements based on epigenetic signatures, as well as the genes they regulate. This research will enhance understanding of epigenetic processes in the pig. Sites of dynamic DNA methylation, whether across tissues or developmental stages, represent putative sites of transcriptional regulation. Increased knowledge of regulatory regions will enhance the search for causative variants influencing complex traits in the pig, given that numerous QTL have been identified in non-coding regions of the genome where a functional role is not currently known. Specific objectives are to:Characterize tissue-specific or cell-type specific DNA methylation patterns in healthy adult pig tissues and immune cells, and their associations with gene expression.Assess developmental DNA methylation dynamics in fetal pig tissues.Evaluate effects of physiological stress on DNA methylation and gene expression in group-housed gestating female pigs and their offspring.