In Silico Comparative Analysis of the AQP7 Gene in Camels, Small Ruminants (Goats and Sheep) and Their Relation to Climate Change Adaptation

Aquaporin 7 (AQP7) plays a crucial role in water and glycerol transport, essential for osmoregulation in species exposed to diverse environmental challenges. This study examines the AQP7 gene in camels, goats, and sheep through in silico analysis, focusing on genetic diversity and climate adaptation. Analysis of 21 nucleotide sequences revealed 114 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), of which 38 were non-synonymous; 15 (40%) were deemed deleterious, and 23 (60%) neutral. Camels exhibited higher genetic variability (sequence lengths: 2,860–3,030 bp) compared to goats (1,872–1,948 bp) and sheep (1,237–7,433 bp). Tajima’s Neutrality Test indicated a positive Tajima's D value for camels (1.77661), suggesting balancing selection, while goats showed lower diversity (D = 0.69900), and sheep exhibited neutrality (D = 0.00000). Nucleotide diversity (π) and segregating sites (S) were also higher in camels than in the other species. These findings suggest camels' genetic diversity in AQP7 reflects adaptive traits for arid environments, contrasting with the lower variability in goats and sheep, which may be linked to different ecological niches. The study highlights AQP7's significance in understanding genetic resilience and evolutionary adaptation to climate change.