Genetic Diversity and Molecular Phylogeny of Iranian Sheep Based on Cytochrome b Gene Sequences

Phylogenetic relationships and genetic variation between two Iranian sheep breeds were analyzed using cytochrome b (cyt-b) gene sequences. The genomic DNA was isolated by salting out method and amplified cytochrome b gene using polymerase chain reaction restriction (PCR) method with a pair of primer. A partial sequence of cyt-b gene of Iranian sheep is 780 bp and contained 13 variable sites and 11 haplotypes. Phylogenetic analysis of haplotype in the combination with the sheep from GenBank showed that Iranian sheep made a separated cluster. This study is provided useful information for understanding relationships between breeds from different parts of the world. This study may simplify the future researchers and breeders for better understanding the genetic structure and breed differentiation for designing future breeding strategies to the conservation of animal genetic resources.