Juncong Yan
Doctor of Philosophy, (Animal Science)
Study Completed: 2018
College of Sciences
Citation
Thesis Title
Genome-wide copy number variation in sheep: detection and utility as a genetic marker for quantitative traits, with reference to gastrointestinal nema
Read article at Massey Research Online: 
Gastrointestinal nematodes are perhaps the most important parasites of domestic sheep world-wide. Genetic selection for nematode resistance in domestic sheep is being promoted in many countries including New Zealand. The existing molecular markers associated with quantitative traits cannot explain all the genetic variation for a particular trait. Mr Yan explored the utility of copy number variation (CNV) of genes in sheep as a genetic marker for quantitative traits, with reference to gastrointestinal nematodiasis (Roundworm infection) in sheep. Results indicated that CNV could be a potential genetic marker, although the methods for detection and validation needed to be refined. Mr Yan's research expands our understanding of CNV in sheep and its potential application prospects for selective breeding of sheep in the future.
Supervisors
Dr Rao Dukkipati
Professor Hugh Blair
Professor Patrick Biggs