Removal of introns, the non-coding sequences, from the mRNA is essential step of all eukaryotic gene expression. U12-type introns are a minor subgroup of introns that are extremely rare, but present in most eukaryotes. These introns are removed by a U12-dependent spliceosome often referred to as the minor spliceosome. U12-type introns and the minor spliceosome are highly conserved throughout all taxa.
This study maps out the frequency and variation of the U12-type introns and U12-dependent spliceosome in domestic dog. This study uses genome sequencing data of 145 dogs representing multiple breeds. The data is in Variant Call Format and analyzed with Python scripts. This study yields expected results, the frequency and variation is similar to that of human. A more focused data set should be used to study further any pathological traits of the U12-type spliceosomal system.
