Related Experiment Videos
Quantitative trait locus detection in commercial broiler lines using candidate regions.
D J de Koning1, D Windsor, P M Hocking
1Roslin Institute, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9PS UK. dj.dekoning@bbsrc.ac.uk
Journal of Animal Science
|May 30, 2003
Summary
Researchers identified a significant quantitative trait locus (QTL) on chicken chromosome 4 influencing body weight and feed intake in commercial broilers. This finding supports marker-assisted selection for improved broiler production without disrupting current breeding programs.
Area of Science:
- Animal Genetics
- Quantitative Genetics
- Poultry Breeding
Background:
- Quantitative trait loci (QTL) significantly influence economically important traits in livestock.
- A previously identified QTL explaining differences between broiler and layer chickens warrants evaluation in commercial broiler populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate a known QTL for its effect on growth and carcass traits in a commercial broiler line.
- To assess the feasibility of marker-assisted selection within an established broiler breeding scheme.
Main Methods:
- A three-generation pedigree (15 grandsires, 608 half-sib hens, >50,000 offspring) was utilized.
- Genotyping was performed using informative markers on chicken chromosome 4.
- Half-sib analyses were conducted to study linkage with 13 growth and carcass traits.
Main Results:
- Significant QTL for body weight and residual feed intake were confirmed on chromosome 4.
- Evidence for QTL affecting thigh bone and muscle weight was found.
- Increased marker density enhanced QTL significance and revealed additional QTL for carcass weight and conformation.
Conclusions:
- A QTL differentiating broiler and layer chickens segregates in highly selected broiler lines.
- This QTL impacts key production traits, including body weight and feed intake.
- Marker-assisted selection is feasible within commercial broiler breeding without altering existing schemes.