An integrative genomics approach to identify genes and biochemical pathways underlying complex traits in Atlantic salmon

Identifying the genes and biochemical pathways in salmon that are responsible for economically important traits is the primary focus of this application. While a wealth of phenotypic data is available (e.g. the salmon biobank) the ability to resolve causa tive genes and loci has been technology limited. Emergent technologies such as highly parallel sequencers and complementary methodologies permitting genomic complexity reduction make the discovery of large numbers of whole-genome distributed SNPs possible . Together with our high throughput genotyping technologies, we have the unique possibility to fine map QTLs across an entire genome in a single assay. Genotyping data is usually compared to traditional phenotypes such as growth and disease resistance, ho wever the emerging field of genetical genomics demonstrates the potential benefits from combining genotype and haplotype data with expression measurements in an eQTL approach. We plan to utilize our complete infrastructure and collaboration with external partners to identify large numbers of new SNPs, develop genotyping assays and, once they have been identified, develop expression analysis targeted to pathways of interest. Our instrumentation, know-how and multidisciplinary setting make us well able to m eet these demands. The project will contribute considerably to the general knowledge base on the salmon genome, which will be of benefit to the salmon industry and scientific community in general, and help to establish a mechanistic understanding of major genetic factors involved in economic traits relevant to the salmon industry. Implementation of this information in the breeding scheme will have a huge innovative profile, and enable marker and gene assisted selection with consequent benefits in animal h ealth, productivity, and food safety.