Genomics Unit

Analyses of biodiversity on the genome, epigenome and transcriptome level provide information of the interplay of the genes for the expression of complex traits.

We identify genes and function paths that participate in the expression of quantitative traits. In this regard clarification of mechanisms of genotype-environment interaction for the pig and chicken is the center of focus in order to derive approaches and recommendations for animal breeding and animal husbandry.

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and global expression analyses refer to molecular paths that are correlated with the trait expression. We are particularly interested in molecular interactions that are causal for the divergent expression of traits of micronutrient and macronutrient metabolism, product quality, as well as animal health and animal welfare.

Moreover, the molecular basis is a center of focus that enable farm animals to react to changes in the environment in such a manner that well-being, health and performance are ensured. Our analyses provide findings concerning trait-relevant metabolic pathways and candidate genes whose structure and function we investigate in greater depth to identify causal variations.

In this process we consider hierarchically superordinate and subordinate components in molecular control paths and signal paths in in vitro and in vivo models. While these analyses provide DNA markers for breed selection of pigs and chickens, our molecular analyses of the individual development that takes various environmental influences into account, enable clarification of the fundamentals of involved transcriptional and epigenetic processes.

In our models we investigate the effects of dietary and climatic factors on gene activity and on DNA methylation patterns that cause an expression for certain environmental conditions. Our investigations contribute in bringing into harmony the physiological needs of the animals and the husbandry conditions for an improvement of animal well-being.