IUCN / SSC Cat Specialist Group - Digital Cat Library |
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| Johnson, W.E. | |
| Comparative Genomics and the Evolutionary History of the Felidae | |
| 2007 Conference Proceeding | |
Genomics, the study of the relationships between genetic features and biological function, integrates traditional disciplines like molecular, population, and quantitative genetics with new technologies in molecular biology, bioinformatics and automated robotic systems. Two major accomplishments have recently vaulted the Felid family into the genomics era. First, annotation of the 2-fold coverage domestic cat genome sequence was completed. Second, a robust model of the molecular genetic phylogeny of the Felid family was established, which enables us to interpret geographic, temporal, and evolutionary patterns with increased confidence. Our new molecular phylogeny, based upon analyses of 22,789 bp (19 autosomal, 5 X-linked, 6 Y-linked and 9 mitochondrial genes) is the most comprehensive resolution of the Felidae achieved to date. Combined with 14 fossil calibration dates, an accurate estimate of divergence dates among lineages was established, showing that modern felids arose in the late Miocene (around 10.8 MYA) and subsequently evolved into 8 major lineages through a series of intercontinental movements. Advances in comparative genomics will continue to assist felid research by allowing more-efficient identification of genes and mutations of functional importance and facilitating application of discoveries and molecular tools across species. |
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