Whole-Genome Bisulfite Sequencing analysis of milk samples from Assaf ewes. Whole-Genome Bisulfite Sequencing analysis of milk samples from Assaf ewes subjected to nutritional challenge and controls

The high cost of feeding in animal management, volatility of the market prices, and availability of feed components result in constant pressure for adaptations in animal nutrition. The physiological consequences of feed restriction, especially protein, are well described in livestock species. However, the genetic mechanisms associated with such nutritional challenges still need to be elucidated. Here, the methylation profile of milk somatic cells of 14 ewes subjected to a protein restriction (reduction in 44%) and 14 control ewes was evaluated using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing.