The Sheep Gene Expression Atlas
We have created an atlas of gene expression for the domestic sheep
To support functional annotation of the sheep genome (currently, Oar v3.1) we have produced a high-resolution atlas of gene expression from a comprehensive set of sheep tissues and cell types from multiple developmental stages.

The sheep gene expression atlas was published in PLoS Genetics in 2017, providing a model transcriptome for ruminants.
Since then we have produced several satellite manuscripts describing:
- the non-coding transcriptome
- methodology for merging multiple RNA-Seq datasets
- comprehensive profiling of transcription during the development of the ruminant gastrointestinal tract
The sheep gene expression atlas is available as an open source searchable database on the gene annotation portal BioGPS, providing a valuable resource for the livestock genomics community.
The dataset provides a foundation for linking gene expression information with complex traits in sheep to improve productivity. By generating large-scale functional genomics datasets from livestock we can harness functional variation and turn it into sustainable genetic gain.
The Sheep Gene Expression Atlas was funded by BBSRC responsive mode grant BB/L001209/1 awarded to Professor David Hume entitled ‘Functional Annotation of the Sheep Genome’.
Related Links
A high resolution atlas of gene expression in the domestic sheep
The Sheep Gene Expression Atlas on BioGPS
BB/L001209/1 Functional Annotation of the Sheep Genome
Spotlight on the Sheep Gene Expression Atlas - BioGPS