Comparative analysis of mitochondrial cytochrome b (CytB) gene polymorphism in Russian and Indian goat breeds

Relevance. Russia and India represent two important yet contrasting centers of goat breeding with different breed formation histories. A comparative analysis of the genetic diversity of breeds from these remote regions using the CytB gene had not been conducted previously. Such a study allows for the reconstruction of phylogenetic relationships and assessment of the contribution of historical factors to the formation of the gene pool.

Methods. Based on whole-genome sequencing (NGS), CytB gene sequences were obtained for 155 individuals from 15 goat breeds of Russia and India. The analysis involved calculation of genetic diversity indices (Hd, π), construction of a median-joining haplotype network and a Bayesian phylogenetic tree, determination of haplogroups, and analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA).

Results. Both groups exhibited high haplotype diversity, while the nucleotide diversity (π) of Russian breeds was 1.5 times higher (0.00260 vs. 0.00176 in Indian breeds). Haplogroup A dominates (overall frequency 77.4%). It is prevalent in Russian breeds (89.5%). Haplogroup B was found only in Indian goats (30.4%), indicating differences in maternal lineages. Phylogenetic analysis revealed no clear geographical clustering, except for the distinct separation of haplogroup B. AMOVA showed that the main variation (82.26%) is concentrated within breeds. Differences between Russian and Indian populations as groups are minimal (5.93%).

The study demonstrates both a common origin (dominance of haplogroup A, weak intergroup differentiation) and the specifics of the genetic history of Russian and Indian breeds (different nucleotide diversity, presence of a haplogroup B unique to India).

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