Analysis of selection signatures reveals important insights into the adaptability of high-altitude Indian sheep breed Changthangi

Changthangi is a high-altitude sheep breed of India that adapted to cold and hypoxic climate Himalayas. In the present study, we analysed population structure contrasted it with selected Indian European commercial breeds detect genomic regions under positive selection. The Illumina OvineSNP50v1 genotype data on 292 animals from seven different i.e., (n = 29), Garole 26), Deccani 24), Tibetan 37), Rambouillet 102) Australian Merino 50) was used. Mouflon 24) used as an out-group for studying stratification phylogenetic lineage. While principal component analysis (PCA) revealed cluster sheep; TREEMIX ADMIXTURE results also detected introgression lowland inheritance in Changthangi. were compared other groups reference (Australian Rambouillet), (Deccani, Tibetan) inhabiting plains Merino, Rambouillet, Garole). Genomic comparisons using cross extended haplotype homozygosity (XP-EHH) showed multiple functional Ovis aries (Oar) chromosomes 2, 3, 6 18 be selection sheep. These related adaptation climatic stressors, fleece characteristics functioning immune reproductive systems. UCP genes, associated conditions, main loci population. signals mainly body weight carcass traits. Furthermore, found part quantitative trait (QTLs) important traits classes. genes these are suitable candidates future studies genetic mechanisms underlying adaptation.