Comparative Genomics of Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Gorillas
Genome sequence data will be utilized to design PCR primers for detailed sequencing of homologous genes in gorillas and other primates.
Cardiovascular disease risk is a major cause of mortality in great apes in zoos, and questions remain regarding the influence of diet, although such an association is well documented in humans. Primate metabolic adaptations vary from omnivore to strict vegetarianism supported by anatomical specializations such as fermentation capabilities in the foregut (leaf-eating monkeys) and hindgut (gorillas).
Pioneering studies in genetic changes associated with dietary specializations include the comparison of ruminant lysozyme gene evolution with that of leaf-eating monkeys, demonstrating convergent evolution of the lysozyme gene in response to specialized requirements of fermentation. Comparative genome studies of humans and great apes have demonstrated that significant changes in gene expression and elevated rates of accumulation of mutations are noted for genes associated with metabolic activities such as lipid metabolism. These and similar studies allow identification of candidate genes involved in dietary specializations. Furthermore, genomic studies in humans are identifying genes involved in cardiovascular disease risk in our species.
In this CRES Genetics Division project, genome sequence data will be utilized to design PCR primers for detailed sequencing of homologous genes in gorillas, humans, douc langurs, a New World monkey, and an Old World monkey for which genome projects are underway or are being developed. Collecting and evaluating comparative sequence data for a suite of genes associated in humans with cardiovascular disease risk will document the evolutionary changes in the examined genes and provide evidence for patterns of selection in these genes. Husbandry and pharmacological interventions may be indicated through these studies, following paradigms developed for humans, domestic animals, and model organisms.
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