About this Research Topic
The epigenome source of variation modulates gene expression without involving changes to the DNA sequence and is an underutilized source of information that may contribute to improved disease management and productivity of livestock. The epigenome which comprises DNA methylation, histone tail modifications, chromatin remodeling, and non-coding RNA species that can transmit epigenetic information (e.g. microRNAs and long non-coding RNAs, etc.) respond with environmental factors such as nutrition, pathogens, climate, etc. to influence the expression of genes and the emergence of specific phenotypes. Increasing evidence indicates that phenotypic expression results from multi-level interactions between the genome, epigenome, environmental factors and other non-genetic factors. Furthermore, numerous lines of evidence suggest the influence of epigenome variation on livestock production (e.g. milk production, reproduction) and disease traits. Given that livestock breeding depends heavily on the interaction between breed (genetics), environment (e.g. cold or warm climate), nutrition, pathogens and management practices (e.g. type of feed material, form/quantity of feed), it is imperative that attention should be given to their characterization and application in livestock breeding and disease management. Therefore, the aim of this Research Topic is to collect research data on influences of epigenome marks (DNA methylation, histone tail modifications, and chromatin remodeling) on livestock production traits, to facilitate gainful use of this important source of variation to support continued improvement in livestock traits and disease management.
The term livestock in this Research Topic refers to all types of food animals including cattle, sheep, goat, pig, buffalo, camel, alpaca, yak, chicken, turkey, goose, quail, fish, etc. Articles on non-coding RNA will not be accepted as they have been adequately represented in the literature. We welcome original research articles, systematic reviews, reviews, mini-reviews, and methods.
The term livestock in this Research Topic refers to all types of food animals including cattle, sheep, goat, pig, buffalo, camel, alpaca, yak, chicken, turkey, goose, quail, fish, etc. Articles on non-coding RNA will not be accepted as they have been adequately represented in the literature. We welcome original research articles, systematic reviews, reviews, mini-reviews, and methods.
Keywords: Livestock, DNA methylation, histone tail modifications, chromatin remodeling, production, reproduction, nutrition, pathogens, health, climate
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
