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Data from: Genetic diversity and population structure of the Taigan dog breed

Bespalova, Kira1; Perfilyeva, Anastassiya1; Begmanova, Мamura1; Zhaxsylykova, Assel1; Yerzhan, Arailym1; Yergali, Kanagat1; Akunov, Almazbek2; Munarbek uulu, Marat3; Khamchukova, Anna4; Amirgalyeva, Almira1; Kuzovleva, Yelena1

Published Oct 08, 2025 on Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.zpc866tks

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Abstract

The Taigan is an ancient sighthound breed native to the Tien Shan Mountains in Kyrgyzstan and adapted to hunting at high altitudes and in rough terrain. Previous studies have provided insights into its phylogenetic relationships, but more data are needed to determine whether the Taigan is genetically distinct from  related sighthounds. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive genetic analysis using short tandem repeat (STR) markers and high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array data to assess genetic diversity, population structure, and differentiation from other sighthound breeds. The analysis showed high polymorphism and an excess of heterozygosity (F = -0.013), indicating a balanced genetic structure. Bayesian clustering identified five genetic clusters among the Taigans, with no dominant lineage, suggesting a diverse gene pool. PCA and ADMIXTURE assigned the Taigan to the eastern sighthound group, closely clustered with the Kazakh Tazy. Fst analysis identified 95 significant variants between the Taigan and the Kazakh Tazy. Functional annotation revealed enrichment in three signaling pathways: axon guidance, ABC transporter and basal cell carcinoma, indicating genetic differences related to neuronal development, detoxification and epidemal adaptation. These results provide new insights into the genetic traits of the Taigan and suggest that despite its close relationship with the Kazakh Tazy and Afghan Hound, selection pressure, geographic isolation and historical breeding practices may have contributed to its differentiation. Further studies with larger data sets are needed to determine the genetic divergence between the Taigan and the Kazakh Tazy.