Whole blood transcriptome analysis of lactating Murrah buffaloes divergent to contrasting genetic merits for milk yield

Functional genome profiling of Murrah buffaloes ( Bubalus bubalis ) was performed for milk-production trait by whole blood transcriptome analysis comparing RNA-seq data assembled from high and low milk producing multiparous (5 -6 parity) animals. These reflected the genetic merit inherited as daughters born to extremely high- low-end bulls evaluated under a progeny testing scheme ranked estimated breeding value. The average standard yield (SMY) over 305 d during parity recorded 2909.50L ± 492.63 1869.57 189.36L in low-performance buffaloes, respectively. “reference” assembly libraries group (n=16), comprising animals different physiological states. Replicates selected within each category showed correlation coefficient order (R2=0.98) while with `reference' assembly. sequence mapped Mediterranean water buffalo genome, revealed differentially expressed genes (DEGs) distinctly depicted via heat maps volcano plots obtained two categories animals, determining more than 25,000 Cufflink analysis. DEGs included 83 down-regulating 142 up-regulating (p<0.05, FDR<0.05). classification fine networking biological processes, primarily cell signaling, proliferation, differentiation, RNA splicing, fat metabolism, inflammasome generation. processes are regulated transcription factors binding proteins covered network TNF alpha NF-kappa B signaling MAPK PI3K-AKT pathways/ cascade emerged main pathways. Emerged pathways remarkably intricate tuning metabolic development converging into production buffaloes. Segregated patterns gene expression using non-invasive method has promising resource protein -protein interactions, involved lactation. Synergism promoting epigenetic regulation at all stages mammary tissue induce mammogenic lactogenic responses subsequent secretion optimum feeding management. findings may help improve strategies achieve desired