Work Package 2: Epigenetics

Rationale: Epigenetics can be defined as stable alterations in gene expression potential that arise during development and cell proliferation [1]. These alterations are associated to biochemical modifications of the DNA and chromatin and can be affected by environmental stimuli [2] including the maternal diet effects [3]. DNA methylation and histone modifications are the well-studied epigenetic modifications

Objectives

·       New knowledge on the contribution of epigenetics to the variability of phenotypic traits

·       Develop a sensitive readout of the epigenetic status of the genome of domestic species for the combined use of molecular genetic testing and epigenetic analysis in selection

·       Provide new input on the genetic to environmental effects for a better control and even manipulation of the ways in which the genome “learns by experience”.

WP Leader:  Dr Jean Paul Renard (Institute National de la Recherche Agronomique)

Partners involved:

Institute National de la Recherche Agronomique

Research Institute for the Biology of Farm Animals, FBN-Dummerstorf

Institute for Animal Genetics, Nutrition and Housing, University of Berne

University of Munich

[1] Jaenisch, R and Bird, A. Nat. Gen. 33, 245-254 (2003)

[2] Mays-Hoppes, L. et al. Dev. Genet. 7, 65-73 (1986)

[3] Wolff, G.F. et al. Faseb J. 12, 949-957 (1998)