[Mapping quantitative trait loci for quantitative traits in dairy cattle using microsatellite markers]

Area of Science:

• Animal Genetics
• Dairy Science
• Quantitative Genetics

Context:

• Dairy cattle breeding programs require precise genetic information for economically important traits.
• Identifying genetic markers associated with traits like milk yield, fat and protein content, disease resistance (mastitis, somatic cell count), reproductive performance, and productive life is crucial.
• Quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping provides a framework for understanding the genetic architecture of these complex traits.

Purpose:

• To review and synthesize existing knowledge on quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping for significant traits in dairy cattle.
• To consolidate information on the genetic basis of milk production, composition, health, and longevity in dairy populations.
• To provide a comprehensive overview of QTLs identified for traits including milk yield, fat percentage, fat yield, protein percentage, protein yield, clinical mastitis, somatic cell count, reproductive performance, and productive life.

Summary:

• This review consolidates findings from quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping studies in dairy cattle.
• It covers a wide range of economically important traits, including milk yield, fat and protein percentages and yields, clinical mastitis incidence, somatic cell counts, reproductive efficiency, and productive lifespan.
• The identified QTLs provide insights into the genetic control of these complex traits, essential for marker-assisted selection.

Impact:

• Facilitates the identification of genetic markers for marker-assisted selection in dairy cattle breeding.
• Aids in developing strategies to enhance milk production, improve product quality, and increase disease resistance in dairy herds.
• Contributes to the long-term genetic improvement of dairy cattle for sustainable and profitable milk production.