The transcriptome profiling of the Sistani cattle and its crossbred with Montbeliarde breed

Transcriptome study of the desired crossbreed and comparing it with the pure parental population is a method for evaluating and selecting cross with appropriate products, yet disease resistance, high tolerance to environmental stresses, and compatibility with the climate of the breeding tract. RNA-Sequencing (RNA-seq) technology was employed to investigate the effect of crossbreeding by the Montbeliarde cattle on the “Sistani cattle” transcriptome. Blood samples were collected from 60 cows (30 pure and 30 crossbreeds). The samples were shared together and two samples were taken from each group for sequencing (4 samples). Total RNA was extracted in the Media Teb Gene Laboratory of Iran. The mRNA selection, library preparation, and sequencing were performed at BGI Shenzhen, China on an Illumina HiSeq 2500 sequencer. After assembling the transcripts with the bovine reference genome, Cuffdiff was used to detect differential gene expression in purebred and its crossbred. In total, 45 significantly differentially expressed genes were identified (false discovery rate q < 0.05) between purebred Sistani and “Sistani×Montbeliarde” crossbreed. These genes are reported to have a role in immune response, calving, fertility, and resistance to mastitis. Besides, they may have a role in different levels of heat tolerance and disease resistance. Therefore, Sistani×Montbeliarde crossbred might be suitable for the climatic conditions of the Sistan region in Iran.