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Mapping genes that control hormone-induced ovulation rate in mice
J L Spearow1, P A Nutson, W S Mailliard
1Section of Neurobiology, Physiology and Behavior, University of California at Davis, Davis, California 95616, USA. jlspearow@ucdavis.edu
Biology of Reproduction
|September 24, 1999
Summary
Researchers identified genetic markers for hormone-induced ovulation rate (HIOR) in mice, revealing key genes controlling ovarian responsiveness to gonadotropins for improved reproductive performance.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Reproductive Biology
- Animal Science
Background:
- Significant genetic variation exists in hormone-induced ovulation rate (HIOR) between mouse strains C57BL/6J and A/J.
- Understanding the genetic basis of HIOR is crucial for improving mammalian reproductive efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map quantitative trait loci (QTL) influencing the 6-fold difference in HIOR between B6 and A/J mice.
- To identify molecular genetic markers associated with ovarian responsiveness to gonadotropins.
Main Methods:
- QTL linkage analysis was performed on 167 backcross mice.
- 165 loci were analyzed to identify suggestive and significant QTL.
- Composite interval mapping was used to assess significance.
Main Results:
- Five QTLs (Oriq1-5) were identified on chromosomes 9, 2, 6, X, and 10, influencing HIOR.
- Oriq3 on chromosome 6 was significant (LOD = 3.45).
- These QTLs are associated with increased egg numbers in HIOR.
Conclusions:
- The study provides the first molecular genetic markers for reproductive QTL controlling differences in ovarian response to gonadotropins.
- These markers can aid in predicting ovarian responsiveness and improving reproductive performance in mammals.
