Genome sequencing of Asiatic Lion

Question: Which agency has conducted the genome sequencing of Asiatic Lion?
(a) Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology
(b) AIIMS, Hyderabad
(c) National Green Tribunal
(d) IIT Kanpur
Answer: (a)
Related facts:

  • The entire genome of Asiatic lion, an endangered species, has been sequenced by scientists from CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad for the first time.
  • Asiatic Lion is an endangered species found mostly in the forests of Gir, Gujarat.
  • The genome is estimated to be 2.3 Gb (Gigabase) long and is found to have 20,543 protein-coding genes.
  • This firsthand information would help to better understand the evolution of Asiatic lions and also make possible comparative analysis with other big cats.
  • As the complete genome of royal Bengal tiger, African Cheetah and Jaguar available, availability of the genome of Asiatic Lions will facilitate comparative studies of all these big cats.
  • The final objective of this study is to understand the species at DNA level and study about any specific problems related to adaptability to environment or behaviour vis-à-vis other big cats.
  • Comparative genomics between African and Asiatic lions could be undertaken once the complete genome of the African lion is sequenced.

Asiatic Lion:

  • The population of the endangered Asiatic lion is very low. It is only 523 animals which are present in the Gir forests.
  • Scientists with this genome sequencing will get to develop specific markers to study population genetics (the differences at the gene level within a population) and get new ideas about its population status and subsequent management.
  • There is a need to adopt a multi-pronged approach for the conservation of Asiatic Lions and the study will enable better disease and population management.

Links:
https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/ccmb-scientists-sequence-asiatic-lion-genome/article27103990.ece