Localization of the fragile X chromosome break points in Holstein-Friesian cattle (Bos taurus)

Chromosome fragility is generally believed to affect cattle reproductive performance. Lymphocytes were cultured and the long arm of the X-chromosome was measured in 19 bovines that had been presented as repeat breeders, freemartin cotwins, or as having had anestrus or abortions. The positions of the break points on the X-chromosome were estimated by a measuring compass, starting at the centromere. Relative measurements were calculated from the ratio of break point distance from the centromere to the total Xq length. In our study the break points were found to be mainly in the middle of the long arm (X = 0.52; sigma=0.046). Giemsa banding showed that the break points were located in a large negative G-band observed in region 3 of the long arm. The relationship of these findings to animal reproductive problems is discussed.