Genetic effect and combined genotype effect of , β, and loci on litter size in a Large White population.

To select new Large White line with high number of piglets born, genotypes of estrogen receptor (), the follicle stimulating hormone β subunit (β), catenin alpha like 1 () and were tested in 472 Large White sows. The associations of different genotypes with litter size traits were also studied. The results showed ESR and FSHβ sows produced 0.41-1.49 more pigs per litter ( < .05) for total number born (TNB) and number born alive (NBA) than did other corresponding genotypes. TNB of CTNNAL1 sows is 0.50 more pigs per litter ( < .05) than that of CTNNAL1 sows with the dominance effect of 0.25 pigs per litter ( < .05). miR-27a sows had a less estimated breeding value (EBV) to TNB and had a more number of mummified pigs (NM) than did miR-27a or miR-27a sows ( < .05). Therefore, , , , allele was favorable for litter size traits. Furthermore, combined genetic effect analysis showed ESRFSHβ, ESRCTNNAL1, ESRmiR-27a, FSHβCTNNAL1, FSHβmiR-27a and CTNNAL1 miR-27a was the favorable combined genotype for litter size traits. These results identified favorable alleles and genotypes for litter size traits and suggested a potential selection scheme for litter size in Large White pigs.