Improving the Alpaca Genome Sequence Assembly

Developing a sequence-based whole genome map of the alpaca genome is critical to discovering genes that are linked to congenital disoders in this species. Use of the curent genome sequences is limited. This study will enhance the knowledge about the structure and function of the alpaca genome. The investigators will improve the current assembly and annotation of the alpaca genome by re-analyzing the existing genome sequences, adding sequence information from additional individuals, identifying alpaca genes and regulatory elements, and assigning sequences to individual alpaca chromosomes. The work will generate molecular tools for better governing genetic disorders, diseases and important traits in alpacas and other camelids.