99 Lives Cat Whole Genome Sequencing Initiative Update - 2016

The 99 Lives cat whole genome sequencing initiative is a research community-based project that will sequence the genomes of cats to: 1) Identify normal and abnormal genetic variation, 2) Identify causative mutations for specific health concerns, 3) Allow veterinary hospitals to provide individual genome sequencing for cats for state-of-the-art health care. Illumina HiSeq 100 bp paired end sequencing reads from two PCR-free libraries per cat of 350 bp and 550 bp for 20X – 30X genome coverage is suggested. Maverix Biomics provides the bioinformatics support, aligning the reads to the cat genome Felis_catus-6.2 sequence and using Platypus to call variants. The cat reads and SNPs are overlaid onto a UCSC-type browser for easy viewing of the data. Data tables with specific filters can be accessed that provide the identified SNPs in specific genes, regions, chromosomes, or the entire genome. Once a genome dataset is transferred to Maverix, the contributor will be given access to the website for the 99 Lives cat genome data. Contributors are expected to provide the basic signalment of the cats when possible, such as gender, breed, place of origin, and coat color. All cats are welcome, including exotic and wild felids. The current dataset has 51 domestic cats and 4 wild felids. The new analysis will include 82 felids, comprised of 11 exotic felids and 71 domestic cats. The most recent complete database analysis will be performed in late fall 2015. Additional cat sequencing will likely employ updated illumina-based technologies.