Duck genomics

Abstract

As DNA sequencing throughputs increase and genomics becomes commonplace, more and more animal species are studied. Thus, the duck genome sequence was published recently. However, although this is an important step and will drastically increase our knowledge on the biology of this species, complementary projects are needed. Some have been initiated, amongst which SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) detection for population studies and management, radiation hybrid maps for ordering the sequence along chromosomes, genetic maps for QTL (Quantitative Trait Locus) detection and transcript sequencing for structural and functional annotation. The first QTL detection for traits influencing the performances of the mule duck, performed using microsatellite markers in the common duck, will be completed by a second study using specifically designed SNP, allowing for an improved coverage of the genome. Transcript and protein models constructed from the sequences will facilitate proteomics and transcriptomics studies.