RESUMO

Paternal programming is the concept that the environmental signals from the sire's experiences leading up to mating can alter semen and ultimately affect the phenotype of resulting offspring. Potential mechanisms carrying the paternal effects to offspring can be associated with epigenetic signatures (DNA methylation, histone modification and non-coding RNAs), oxidative stress, cytokines, and the seminal microbiome. Several opportunities exist for sperm/semen to be influenced during development; these opportunities are within the testicle, the epididymis, or accessory sex glands. Epigenetic signatures of sperm can be impacted during the pre-natal and pre-pubertal periods, during sexual maturity and with advancing sire age. Sperm are susceptible to alterations as dictated by their developmental stage at the time of the perturbation, and sperm and seminal plasma likely have both dependent and independent effects on offspring. Research using rodent models has revealed that many factors including over/under nutrition, dietary fat, protein, and ingredient composition (e.g., macro- or micronutrients), stress, exercise, and exposure to drugs, alcohol, and endocrine disruptors all elicit paternal programming responses that are evident in offspring phenotype. Research using livestock species has also revealed that sire age, fertility level, plane of nutrition, and heat stress can induce alterations in the epigenetic, oxidative stress, cytokine, and microbiome profiles of sperm and/or seminal plasma. In addition, recent findings in pigs, sheep, and cattle have indicated programming effects in blastocysts post-fertilization with some continuing into post-natal life of the offspring. Our research group is focused on understanding the effects of common management scenarios of plane of nutrition and growth rates in bulls and rams on mechanisms resulting in paternal programming and subsequent offspring outcomes. Understanding the implication of paternal programming is imperative as short-term feeding and management decisions have the potential to impact productivity and profitability of our herds for generations to come.

RESUMO

Paternal programming is the concept that the environmental signals from the sire's experiences leading up to mating can alter semen and ultimately affect the phenotype of resulting offspring. Potential mechanisms carrying the paternal effects to offspring can be associated with epigenetic signatures (DNA methylation, histone modification and non-coding RNAs), oxidative stress, cytokines, and the seminal microbiome. Several opportunities exist for sperm/semen to be influenced during development; these opportunities are within the testicle, the epididymis, or accessory sex glands. Epigenetic signatures of sperm can be impacted during the pre-natal and pre-pubertal periods, during sexual maturity and with advancing sire age. Sperm are susceptible to alterations as dictated by their developmental stage at the time of the perturbation, and sperm and seminal plasma likely have both dependent and independent effects on offspring. Research using rodent models has revealed that many factors including over/under nutrition, dietary fat, protein, and ingredient composition (e.g., macro- or micronutrients), stress, exercise, and exposure to drugs, alcohol, and endocrine disruptors all elicit paternal programming responses that are evident in offspring phenotype. Research using livestock species has also revealed that sire age, fertility level, plane of nutrition, and heat stress can induce alterations in the epigenetic, oxidative stress, cytokine, and microbiome profiles of sperm and/or seminal plasma. In addition, recent findings in pigs, sheep, and cattle have indicated programming effects in blastocysts post-fertilization with some continuing into post-natal life of the offspring. Our research group is focused on understanding the effects of common management scenarios of plane of nutrition and growth rates in bulls and rams on mechanisms resulting in paternal programming and subsequent offspring outcomes. Understanding the implication of paternal programming is imperative as short-term feeding and management decisions have the potential to impact productivity and profitability of our herds for generations to come.(AU)

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RESUMO

Differences between the expression of the two alleles of a gene are known as allele-specific expression (ASE), a common event in the transcriptome of mammals. Despite ASE being a source of phenotypic variation, its occurrence and effects on genetic prediction of economically relevant traits are still unexplored in bovines. Furthermore, as ASE events are likely driven by cis-regulatory mutations, scanning them throughout the bovine genome represents a significant step to elucidate the mechanisms underlying gene expression regulation. To address this question in a Bos indicus population, we built the ASE profile of the skeletal muscle tissue of 190 Nelore steers, using RNA sequencing data and SNPs genotypes from the Illumina BovineHD BeadChip (770 K bp). After quality control, 820 SNPs showed at least one sample with ASE. These SNPs were widespread among all autosomal chromosomes, being 32.01% found in 3'UTR and 31.41% in coding regions. We observed a considerable variation of ASE profile among individuals, which highlighted the need for biological replicates in ASE studies. Functional analysis revealed that ASE genes play critical biological functions in the development and maintenance of muscle tissue. Additionally, some of these genes were previously reported as associated with beef production and quality traits in livestock, thus indicating a possible source of bias on genomic predictions for these traits.

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Mineral contents in bovine muscle can affect meat quality, growth, health, and reproductive traits. To better understand the genetic basis of this phenotype in Nelore (Bos indicus) cattle, we analysed genome-wide mRNA and miRNA expression data from 114 muscle samples. The analysis implemented a new application for two complementary algorithms: the partial correlation and information theory (PCIT) and the regulatory impact factor (RIF), in which we included the estimated genomic breeding values (GEBVs) for the phenotypes additionally to the expression levels, originally proposed for these methods. We used PCIT to determine putative regulatory relationships based on significant associations between gene expression and GEBVs for each mineral amount. Then, RIF was adopted to determine the regulatory impact of genes and miRNAs expression over the GEBVs for the mineral amounts. We also investigated over-represented pathways, as well as pieces of evidences from previous studies carried in the same population and in the literature, to determine regulatory genes for the mineral amounts. For example, NOX1 expression level was positively correlated to Zinc and has been described as Zinc-regulated in humans. Based on our approach, we were able to identify genes, miRNAs and pathways not yet described as underlying mineral amount. The results support the hypothesis that extracellular matrix interactions are the core regulator of mineral amount in muscle cells. Putative regulators described here add information to this hypothesis, expanding the knowledge on molecular relationships between gene expression and minerals.

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Iron (Fe) is an essential mineral for metabolism and plays a central role in a range of biochemical processes. Therefore, this study aimed to identify differentially expressed (DE) genes and metabolic pathways in Longissimus dorsi (LD) muscle from cattle with divergent iron content, as well as to investigate the likely role of these DE genes in biological processes underlying beef quality parameters. Samples for RNA extraction for sequencing and iron, copper, manganese, and zinc determination were collected from LD muscles at slaughter. Eight Nelore steers, with extreme genomic estimated breeding values for iron content (Fe-GEBV), were selected from a reference population of 373 animals. From the 49 annotated DE genes (FDR<0.05) found between the two groups, 18 were up-regulated and 31 down-regulated for the animals in the low Fe-GEBV group. The functional enrichment analyses identified several biological processes, such as lipid transport and metabolism, and cell growth. Lipid metabolism was the main pathway observed in the analysis of metabolic and canonical signaling pathways for the genes identified as DE, including the genes FASN, FABP4, and THRSP, which are functional candidates for beef quality, suggesting reduced lipogenic activities with lower iron content. Our results indicate metabolic pathways that are partially influenced by iron, contributing to a better understanding of its participation in skeletal muscle physiology.

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RESUMO

In the equine species, the surface characteristics, present a close relationship with its functional classification. The scientific use of linear measurements can contribute decisively in the selective process of many breeds, by identifying the higher morphologically individuals and excluding from reproduction those that are not closed to desirable. The present study objected to evaluate and compare, the linear measures from stallions and gelded horses registered in ABCCCampolinas CP6 and CP8 books, and to determinate the existing correlations. In order to reach so, 15 linear measures from 4.837 stallions and 1.371 gelded were evaluated from descriptive statistic, Pearsons correlation and analysis of variance. Generally, higher values of correlations were observed for stallions than to gelded ones. To stallions, most of the measures were significantly influenced (P 0,01) by the year of birth, state of birth and coat color, while to gelded ones the coat color showed lower influence (P 0,01) upon the measures. Its important to notice that castration did not committed the animals final growth, however the breeders non sense the lack of appropriated criteria during the selection process and personal preferences can contribute towards stablishing breed characters rather than functionals. This can be highlighted by the fact that Campolinas gelded horses showed, in average, better proportioned than stallions.(AU)

A estreita relação entre as características de exterior e a classificação funcional dos equinos tem contribuído consideravelmente no processo seletivo a partir da identificação de indivíduos morfologicamente uperiores, permitindo a eliminação do processo reprodutivo de indivíduos portadores de caracteres indesejáveis. Objetivou-se avaliar as medidas lineares dos garanhões e castrados registrados no livro definitivo da ABCCCampolina, bem como compará-las e determinar as correlações existentes. Para tal, foram analisadas 15 medidas lineares de 4.837 garanhões e 1.371 castrados a partir da estatística descritiva, correlação de Pearson e análise de variância. De forma geral, as correlações encontradas apresentaram valores maiores para garanhões que para os castrados. Para aqueles a maioria das medidas foram significativamente influenciadas (P 0,01) pelo ano de nascimento, estado do criatório e pelagem, enquanto que para os castrados a pelagem foi a variável de menor influência (P 0,01) sobre as medidas. Destaca-se que a castração não comprometeu o desenvolvimento final dos animais, entretanto a falta de critérios dos produtores no momento da seleção e a preferência pessoal podem contribuir para a fixação de caracteres raciais em detrimento dos funcionais. Isso pode ser evidenciado pelo fato de os machos castrados da raça Campolina mostraram-se, em média, melhores proporcionados quando comparados aos garanhões.(AU)

Assuntos

RESUMO

In the equine species, the surface characteristics, present a close relationship with its functional classification. The scientific use of linear measurements can contribute decisively in the selective process of many breeds, by identifying the higher morphologically individuals and excluding from reproduction those that are not closed to desirable. The present study objected to evaluate and compare, the linear measures from stallions and gelded horses registered in ABCCCampolinas CP6 and CP8 books, and to determinate the existing correlations. In order to reach so, 15 linear measures from 4.837 stallions and 1.371 gelded were evaluated from descriptive statistic, Pearsons correlation and analysis of variance. Generally, higher values of correlations were observed for stallions than to gelded ones. To stallions, most of the measures were significantly influenced (P 0,01) by the year of birth, state of birth and coat color, while to gelded ones the coat color showed lower influence (P 0,01) upon the measures. Its important to notice that castration did not committed the animals final growth, however the breeders non sense the lack of appropriated criteria during the selection process and personal preferences can contribute towards stablishing breed characters rather than functionals. This can be highlighted by the fact that Campolinas gelded horses showed, in average, better proportioned than stallions.

A estreita relação entre as características de exterior e a classificação funcional dos equinos tem contribuído consideravelmente no processo seletivo a partir da identificação de indivíduos morfologicamente uperiores, permitindo a eliminação do processo reprodutivo de indivíduos portadores de caracteres indesejáveis. Objetivou-se avaliar as medidas lineares dos garanhões e castrados registrados no livro definitivo da ABCCCampolina, bem como compará-las e determinar as correlações existentes. Para tal, foram analisadas 15 medidas lineares de 4.837 garanhões e 1.371 castrados a partir da estatística descritiva, correlação de Pearson e análise de variância. De forma geral, as correlações encontradas apresentaram valores maiores para garanhões que para os castrados. Para aqueles a maioria das medidas foram significativamente influenciadas (P 0,01) pelo ano de nascimento, estado do criatório e pelagem, enquanto que para os castrados a pelagem foi a variável de menor influência (P 0,01) sobre as medidas. Destaca-se que a castração não comprometeu o desenvolvimento final dos animais, entretanto a falta de critérios dos produtores no momento da seleção e a preferência pessoal podem contribuir para a fixação de caracteres raciais em detrimento dos funcionais. Isso pode ser evidenciado pelo fato de os machos castrados da raça Campolina mostraram-se, em média, melhores proporcionados quando comparados aos garanhões.

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The objective of this study was characterize the production systems of dairy goat in the city of Paranatama-PE, identifying units of production, management practices and aspects of handling. Sixteen properties were visited, where they were gathered concerning the socio-economic profile, production and management systems and milking practices. The results show that it is a family activity, secondary and with low level of technology. The properties range from 1 to 10 hectares, with herds of 3-21 heads and average productivity of 1 kg milk/animal/day. Animals are raised semi-intensively, where the main source of food for livestock is the native forage resource (44%). It was evident that the level of education is determinant in the adoption of registration of the livestock herd and technical assistance. The practice of milking, health, nutrition and reproduction management are inadequate and deficient. Although the activity is very important, there is a lack of training of farmers to perform that in a viable way, being necessary to structure and to train producers so that there is progress in the activity.(AU)

Objetivou-se caracterizar os sistemas de produção de caprinos leiteiros no município de Paranatama-PE, identificando as unidades de produção, as práticas de manejo e os aspectos de gerenciamento. Foram visitadas 16 propriedades e levantadas informações referentes ao perfil sócio-econômico, aos sistemas de produção e manejo e às práticas de ordenha. Os resultados demonstraram que se trata de uma atividade familiar, secundária e de baixo nível tecnológico. As propriedades variam de 1 a 10 hectares, com rebanhos entre 3 a 21 cabeças e produtividade média de 1 kg de leite/dia/animal. Os animais são criados de forma semi-intensiva, onde a principal fonte de alimentação para os rebanhos é o recurso forrageiro nativo (44%). Apenas seis (38%) das propriedades fazem o registro zootécnico do rebanho e apenas cinco (31%) recebem assistência técnica. As práticas de ordenha, manejo sanitário, nutricional e reprodutivo são inadequados e deficientes. Embora a atividade seja de grande importância, observa-se a falta de capacitação dos produtores para desempenhá-la de forma viável, sendo necessária a estruturação e capacitação dos produtores de modo que haja um progresso na atividade.(AU)

Assuntos

RESUMO

The objective of this study was characterize the production systems of dairy goat in the city of Paranatama-PE, identifying units of production, management practices and aspects of handling. Sixteen properties were visited, where they were gathered concerning the socio-economic profile, production and management systems and milking practices. The results show that it is a family activity, secondary and with low level of technology. The properties range from 1 to 10 hectares, with herds of 3-21 heads and average productivity of 1 kg milk/animal/day. Animals are raised semi-intensively, where the main source of food for livestock is the native forage resource (44%). It was evident that the level of education is determinant in the adoption of registration of the livestock herd and technical assistance. The practice of milking, health, nutrition and reproduction management are inadequate and deficient. Although the activity is very important, there is a lack of training of farmers to perform that in a viable way, being necessary to structure and to train producers so that there is progress in the activity.

Objetivou-se caracterizar os sistemas de produção de caprinos leiteiros no município de Paranatama-PE, identificando as unidades de produção, as práticas de manejo e os aspectos de gerenciamento. Foram visitadas 16 propriedades e levantadas informações referentes ao perfil sócio-econômico, aos sistemas de produção e manejo e às práticas de ordenha. Os resultados demonstraram que se trata de uma atividade familiar, secundária e de baixo nível tecnológico. As propriedades variam de 1 a 10 hectares, com rebanhos entre 3 a 21 cabeças e produtividade média de 1 kg de leite/dia/animal. Os animais são criados de forma semi-intensiva, onde a principal fonte de alimentação para os rebanhos é o recurso forrageiro nativo (44%). Apenas seis (38%) das propriedades fazem o registro zootécnico do rebanho e apenas cinco (31%) recebem assistência técnica. As práticas de ordenha, manejo sanitário, nutricional e reprodutivo são inadequados e deficientes. Embora a atividade seja de grande importância, observa-se a falta de capacitação dos produtores para desempenhá-la de forma viável, sendo necessária a estruturação e capacitação dos produtores de modo que haja um progresso na atividade.

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RESUMO

O comércio de carne em feiras livres é comum em pequenas cidades, contudo as precárias condições de higiene durante a comercialização põem em risco à saúde da população. Portanto, objetivou-se avaliar a percepção dos comerciantes de carnes quanto aos aspectos higiênico-sanitários e os riscos à saúde pública na aquisição destes produtos. Adotou-se a entrevista semiestruturada para obter informações sobre aspectos higiênicos e da comercialização de carnes em feiras livres em cinco municípios da microrregião de Garanhuns. Foram entrevistados 109 comerciantes os quais têm em média 13 anos na atividade e 52 (48%) deles contam com a participação da família no negócio. Os abates são realizados em matadouros municipais, no entanto 36 (33%) entrevistados os realizam de forma clandestina. Quanto aos aspectos higiênicos 65 (60,4%) entrevistados desconhecem a contaminação da carne através da manipulação, e 67 (61,5%) deles consideram adequada a exposição da carne em ganchos, sem refrigeração. As práticas higiênicas durante a comercialização são precárias, é ausente a fiscalização sanitária e é pouco o conhecimento dos comerciantes sobre boas práticas de manipulação. Salienta-se a necessidade de adoção de programas de promoção à saúde e de capacitação continuada dos comerciantes de forma a mudar a realidade observada.

The meat trade in street markets is common in small towns, however precarious hygiene conditions during marketing endanger to the population health. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the perceptions of traders on the aspects of meat hygiene and sanitation and public health risks in the purchase of these products. Itwas adopted a semi-structured interview to obtain information on hygienic aspects and marketing of meat in street markets in five municipalities of the region of microregion of Garanhuns. Were interviewed 109 marketers who have an average of 13 years in business and 52 (48%) of them have family involvement in the business. The slaughters are performed in municipal slaughterhouses, however 36 (33%) the interviewees perform clandestinely. As for the hygienic aspects 65 (60.4%) interviewees are unaware of the contamination of meat by manipulating, and 67 (61.5%) of them consider adequate exposure of the meat hooks, without refrigeration. Hygienic practices during marketing are precarious, is absent and the sanitary inspection is little knowledge of the traders on good handling practices. We emphasize the need to adopt programs to promote health and ongoing training of traders in order to change the reality observed.

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