High-Density Genetic Map and Sex-Determination Genes in Pacific White Shrimp

Greg Howard
6th June, 2024

High-Density Genetic Map and Sex-Determination Genes in Pacific White Shrimp

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • The study from São Paulo State University (Unesp) focused on the Pacific white shrimp, a key species in global shrimp farming
  • Researchers created detailed genetic maps for male, female, and combined sexes using a 50K SNP array
  • They identified specific genomic regions linked to sex determination, which can help in breeding programs for better shrimp production
The Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) is a cornerstone of global shrimp aquaculture, yet our understanding of its genomics remains limited. This gap in knowledge hinders efforts to enhance economically important traits such as growth and disease resistance. A recent study from São Paulo State University (Unesp) aims to bridge this gap by constructing high-density genetic maps and identifying genomic regions associated with sex determination in this species[1]. The study involved the creation of male, female, and sex-averaged genetic maps using a 50K single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array. SNPs are variations at a single position in a DNA sequence among individuals, and they serve as valuable markers for genetic studies. The researchers then conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to pinpoint genomic regions linked to sex in Pacific white shrimp. The significance of this research is multifaceted. Firstly, the construction of dense genetic linkage maps provides a robust framework for future genomic studies. These maps enable the identification of genetic markers associated with traits of economic importance, facilitating selective breeding programs aimed at improving shrimp production. Previous studies have highlighted the potential of SNPs for genetic characterization and selective breeding in shrimp[2][3]. Moreover, understanding the genetic basis of sex determination is particularly valuable for the aquaculture industry. Many cultured crustacean species, including shrimp, exhibit sexually dimorphic growth patterns, meaning that males and females grow at different rates. Cultivating monosex populations can lead to higher yields and reduce the risk of invasive species[4]. By mapping the sex-determination region in Pacific white shrimp, this study lays the groundwork for potential applications in reproductive management, such as the production of all-male or all-female populations through genetic or hormonal manipulation. The methods employed in this study are noteworthy for their comprehensiveness and precision. The use of a 50K SNP array allowed for the high-resolution mapping of genetic markers across the shrimp genome. This level of detail is crucial for identifying specific genomic regions associated with sex determination. The GWAS approach further strengthened the study by statistically associating these genetic markers with the sex trait, providing a clear direction for future research and practical applications. This study builds on previous findings that have mapped SNPs and constructed genetic linkage maps for Pacific white shrimp[2]. However, the current research significantly expands the genomic resources available for this species, offering a more detailed and high-density map that can be used for a variety of applications, from selective breeding to reproductive management. In summary, the research conducted by São Paulo State University (Unesp) represents a significant advancement in the genomics of Pacific white shrimp. By constructing high-density genetic maps and identifying genomic regions associated with sex determination, the study provides valuable tools for improving economically important traits and managing shrimp populations more effectively. This work not only enhances our understanding of shrimp genetics but also offers practical solutions for the aquaculture industry, aligning with previous research efforts and setting the stage for future innovations.

GeneticsAnimal ScienceMarine Biology

References

Main Study

1) A high-density linkage map and sex-determination loci in Pacific white shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei)

Published 5th June, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12864-024-10431-x

Related Studies

2) A gene-based SNP linkage map for pacific white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei.

https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2052.2009.02002.x

3) SNP markers for the genetic characterization of Mexican shrimp broodstocks.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ygeno.2018.10.001

4) The insulin-like androgenic gland hormone in crustaceans: From a single gene silencing to a wide array of sexual manipulation-based biotechnologies.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biotechadv.2012.04.008


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