Identification of genomic runs of homozygosity and investigation of related genes in the dromedary camels using whole-genome sequencing data

essential, as well as, the first step for designing breeding programs in this species. In this regard, powerful tools such as next-generation sequencing technology have made it possible to decode the genome information in this species. Based on this research motive, the aim of the current study was to identify the genomic runs of homozygosity (ROH) and investigate related genes in dromedary camels using whole genome sequencing data. For this purpose, a total of 12 sequenced genomic data related to Iranian and non-Iranian dromedary camels were used. After bioinformatics analysis including quality assessment, data pre-preprocessing, alignment in the reference genome, and identification of variants, qualitative filter of variants, finally, ROH regions were identified. Based on the obtained results, 549 (137.3 regions per sample) and 1356 (169.5 regions per sample) ROH were identified in the genomes of Iranian dromedary camels and dromedaries from the Arabian Peninsula, respectively. The results of the annotation revealed that some important fertility-related genes such as FSHR and LHCGR are located in the ROH regions of Iranian dromedary camels. Also, investigation of gene ontology results revealed that some important genes including CXCL9, CXCL10 and CXCL11 (immune-related), STBD1 (related to energy metabolism), SCARB2 (related to lipid metabolism and fertility) and SHROOM3 (related to kidney function) are shared between Iranian and non-Iranian camels. Finally, as a summary, it seems that the controlling factor and the reason for the creation of ROHs in the genome of dromedary camels is natural selection to adapt to the desert environment.