DNA methylation and gene expression in the runt and methyl-deprived pig

Collins, T. Mark (2016) DNA methylation and gene expression in the runt and methyl-deprived pig. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

This research focuses on studying the effect of reduced maternal methyl donor supply as well as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) on DNA methylation and on gene expression in pigs. Two separate techniques were used to determine global DNA methylation levels (cytosine extension and methyl incorporation assays) but no differences at the genomic level were identified for either experimental group using either technique. The expression levels of numerous genes involved in methylation directly or whose expression might be expected to change under these experimental conditions were also investigated. The expression of DNMT3a2 and BHMT were significantly lower in B6-deprived pigs but no differences were observed in folate-deprived or runt pigs compared to relevant controls. Further, sex differences were observed, indicating that sex should be considered for future studies regarding methyl-donor or runt-large studies in pigs. Lastly, we discovered an aberrant RNA species (ARS) in numerous pigs in both of our studies, from both Newfoundland and Manitoba research pig populations, and this ARS significantly affected the expression of numerous genes in both control and treatment groups.

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