Nutrient-gene interactions: application to pet nutrition and health
Brittany M. Vester, Kelly Swanson
Veterinary Focus, Vol. 17, No. 2, pp. 25-32, 2007
Abstract
KEY POINTS The canine genome sequence is complete and the feline genome project is underway Finding single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) affecting response to nutrients or drugs will allow both researchers and veterinarians to formulate diets based on genotype, identify populations susceptible to disease, and effectively treat diseased pets Epigenetic inheritance persists over generations and may contribute to an animal’s ability to respond to specific nutrients It is now established that nutrients may influence gene expression, including mRNA production (transcription), mRNA processing, protein production (translation) and post-translational modifications, thereby influencing the metabolic status of an animal Future research will allow for the formulation of genotype-based diets, the use of biomarkers for early detection of disease, and new therapies for companion animal diseases