Genome-Wide Association Study of Reproductive Traits in Large White Pigs.

Animals (Basel)

College of Animal Science and National Engineering Research Center for Breeding Swine Industry, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.

Published: October 2024

AI Article Synopsis

  • - The study investigates the genetic factors influencing reproductive performance in Large White pigs, which are critical for the pork industry, but knowledge is still limited.
  • - Researchers analyzed data from 2237 sows across four breeding herds in southern China, using Genome-Wide Association Studies to identify significant genetic markers related to reproductive traits.
  • - Findings revealed 45 significant SNPs and 17 candidate genes, with the TT genotype at SNP rs341909772 linked to improved outcomes in the number of piglets born alive and healthy births, suggesting potential breeding strategy enhancements.

Article Abstract

(1) Background: Reproductive performance is crucial for the pork industry's success. The Large White pig is central to this, yet the genetic factors influencing its reproductive traits are not well understood, highlighting the need for further research. (2) Methods: This study utilized Genome-Wide Association Studies to explore the genetic basis of reproductive traits in the Large White pig. We collected data from 2237 Large White sows across four breeding herds in southern China, focusing on eight reproductive traits. Statistical analyses included principal component analysis, linkage disequilibrium analysis, and univariate linear mixed models to identify significant single-nucleotide polymorphisms and candidate genes. (3) Results: Forty-five significantly related SNPs and 17 potential candidate genes associated with litter traits were identified. Individuals with the TT genotype at SNP rs341909772 showed an increase of 1.24 in the number of piglets born alive (NBA) and 1.25 in the number of healthy births (NHBs) compared with those with the CC genotype. (4) Conclusions: The SNPs and genes identified in this study offer insights into the genetics of reproductive traits in the Large White pig, potentially guiding the development of breeding strategies to improve litter size.

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Source
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11475698PMC
http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ani14192874DOI Listing

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