(GIST OF SCIENCE REPORTER) YAK GENOMIC SCIENCE

(JUNE-2025)

YAK GENOMIC SCIENCE

Context:

Specialists from four institutions of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) have assembled the first-ever chromosome-level genome of the Indian yak.

About the Research

• The primary achievement is the successful assembly of the first-ever chromosome-level genome of the Indian yak.

• Methodology: The research team employed cutting-edge long-read sequencing technology and bioinformatics tools to generate the chromosome-level assembly.

Collaborating Institutions

• ICAR-National Research Centre on Yak in Arunachal Pradesh

• ICAR-Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology, Ranchi

• ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut

• ICAR-Central Institute for Cotton Research, Nagpur 

Public Availability

• The assembled genome is now publicly available to the wider scientific community.

• This availability is intended to encourage collaboration and accelerate further research into this unique animal.

Significance and Potential Impact

• This genomic achievement has the potential to transform yak breeding programmes and conservation strategies.

• It will enhance the scientific understanding of the yak’s genetic intricacies and its ecological role in the Himalayan region.

Anticipated Outcomes

• Identifying and preserving genetically diverse yak populations.

• Enhancing desirable traits such as milk yield and disease resistance.

• Elucidating the genetic mechanisms behind the yak’s unique adaptation to harsh environments.

• Providing insights into the evolution and adaptation of other bovine species.

Scientific Research Applications

• Genetic diversity preservation: Enhanced ability to identify and preserve genetically diverse yak populations. 

• Adaptation mechanisms: Deeper understanding of genetic mechanisms behind yak adaptation to harsh environments.

• Comparative genomics: Insights into evolution and adaptation patterns in other bovine species.

• Disease resistance: Identification of genetic factors contributing to disease resistance in extreme conditions.

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Courtesy: Science Reporter