Journal of Animal Research and Nutrition

Description

The study of pregnancy issues and domestication genetics in animals provides extreme insights into both biological processes and evolutionary history. Animal models, which are non-human species used in scientific research, play an important role in understanding complex reproductive mechanisms and genetic traits related to domestication. These models allow scientists to observe genetic, physiological and behavioural responses in controlled environments, offering data that can help improve human medicine, enhance animal breeding practices and preserve endangered species.

Animal models in pregnancy research

Pregnancy is a complex physiological process that requires the coordination of various biological systems, including the endocrine, immune and reproductive systems. Complications during pregnancy can lead to significant health issues for both the mother and the offspring, making it an important area of study. Animal models are need in this context because they allow researchers to investigate pregnancy at multiple levelsmolecular, cellular and systemic.

One of the most widely used animal models in pregnancy research is the mouse. Mice are mammals with genetic, immunological and reproductive systems similar to humans, making them ideal for studying pregnancy-related issues such as pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes and miscarriage. Genetically modified mice, which allow researchers to manipulate specific genes, provide valuable insights into how certain genes influence pregnancy outcomes. For example, by knocking out or altering a gene associated with fetal development, scientists can observe the effects on the pregnancy process, which helps in understanding genetic conditions that affect human pregnancies.

Another important model is the rat, which has a longer gestation period than mice, allowing researchers to study the progression of pregnancy over a more extended period. Rats have been instrumental in studying placental function, which is critical for nutrient exchange between the mother and fetus. Placental abnormalities are linked to various pregnancy complications and understanding these issues in animal models helps researchers develop interventions that could improve maternal-fetal health in humans.

The sheep is another animal model used to study pregnancy, particularly for research on fetal development and the effects of maternal nutrition on the fetus. Sheep pregnancies are more similar to human pregnancies in terms of size and developmental stages and they have been used to study conditions like Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR), which can lead to low birth weight and developmental problems in humans. Research on sheep has provided insights into how maternal diet, oxygen levels and hormone fluctuations affect fetal growth, shedding light on the prevention and management of these issues in human pregnancies.

In addition to these species, non-human primates such as macaques are also used in pregnancy research, particularly for studying placental biology and maternal-fetal interactions. Nonhuman primates share a closer evolutionary relationship with humans, which makes them valuable models for understanding the nuances of human pregnancy, including the role of the placenta in immune tolerance and fetal programming. However, the use of primates raises significant ethical concerns due to their cognitive similarities to humans, leading to a growing emphasis on refining or replacing these models with alternative methods.

Animal models in domestication genetics

Domestication is the process through which wild species are adapted to live alongside humans, undergoing changes in behaviour, physiology and genetics over time. Studying domestication genetics helps scientists understand how selective breeding has shaped the genomes of domestic animals, as well as the traits that make them suitable for life in human environments. Animal models in domestication research provide insights into evolutionary biology, animal behaviour and the genetics of specific traits such as tameness, fertility and growth rates.

The dog (Canis lupus familiaris) is one of the most studied models for domestication genetics. Dogs were among the first animals to be domesticated and their close relationship with humans over thousands of years has led to significant genetic divergence from their wild ancestors, wolves. By comparing the genomes of dogs and wolves, researchers have identified genes linked to domestication traits, such as reduced aggression, improved social bonding with humans and improved adaptability to diverse environments. This research not only helps in understanding how domestication occurs at the genetic level but also has practical implications for breeding programs aimed at enhancing desirable traits in dogs, such as temperament and health.

The chicken is another model organism used in domestication studies. Chickens were domesticated from wild jungle fowl and their rapid reproduction rate, ease of breeding and wide variety of breeds make them an excellent model for genetic research. Studies on chickens have identified key genes involved in traits such as growth rate, egg production and feather patterns. These findings help inform selective breeding practices, which are critical for optimizing poultry production to meet the growing global demand for meat and eggs.