99 Lives Cat Whole Genome Sequencing Initiative

Precise determination of a species’ genome helps to understand disease and develops diagnostic and screening tests that will improve treatment. The genome has been sequenced in humans, dogs, horses, cattle, cats, and several other species. Unfortunately, the genomic sequence has only been determined in a single cat. Cinnamon was an Abyssinian cat from the University of Missouri whose genome was sequenced in 2007. Because the genome was mapped in a single animal, and since less robust methodologies were used, we lack the information needed to develop tests that may help in the identification of mutations and treatment of disease. We propose to spearhead a project that will sequence the genome of 99 cats in order to; 1) Improve coverage of the cat genome, 2) Improve future assemblies of the cat genome, 3) Identify normal and abnormal genetic variation, 4) Identify causative mutations for specific health concerns, 5) Allow veterinary hospitals to provide individual genome sequencing for cats for state of the art health care. We are supporting the coordination of the project to ensure that; 1) Different cats from different breeds and locations are sequenced to maximize variation detection, 2) Similar technologies are used to facilitate efficient data management, transfer and variant identification, 3) Data quality is high and consistent, 4) Data is publically available, 5) Researchers less familiar with genomics research and large scale bioinformatics will have a resource for data interpretation. Specific groups, such as Maverix Biomics, will be supporting the project to ensure success and continuity.