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Updated: Jun 12, 2026
06:12
Quasi-metagenomic Analysis of Salmonella from Food and Environmental Samples
Published on: October 25, 2018
Genome-wide SNP analysis identifies major QTL for Salmonella colonization in the chicken
M S Fife1, J S Howell, N Salmon
1Institute for Animal Health, Compton, Berkshire RG20 7NN, UKThe Roslin Institute and Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Midlothian EH25 9PS, UK.
Animal Genetics
|June 29, 2010
Summary
Genetic selection for Salmonella resistance in chickens is crucial following EU antimicrobial bans. This study identified four quantitative trait loci (QTL) on chromosomes 2, 3, 12, and 25, paving the way for breeding more resistant poultry.
Area of Science:
- Animal Genetics and Breeding
- Poultry Science
- Food Safety
Background:
- Salmonella infections in poultry pose a significant risk to human health.
- The European Union's ban on prophylactic antimicrobials necessitates alternative control strategies for Salmonella in poultry.
- Genetic resistance in chickens offers a sustainable approach to reduce Salmonella colonization and food chain contamination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify genetic loci associated with Salmonella resistance in chickens using a high-density genome-wide scan.
- To analyze differential susceptibility to Salmonella colonization in two inbred chicken lines (61(R) and N(S)).
- To inform breeding programs for enhanced Salmonella control in commercial poultry.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a backcross experimental design with two inbred chicken lines (61(R) and N(S)) differing in Salmonella susceptibility.
- Employed a high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) marker set (1255 SNPs) for whole-genome screening.
- Analyzed log-transformed caecal bacterial counts and the presence of caseous caecal cores in a backcross population (n=288).
Main Results:
- Significant differences in log-transformed caecal bacterial levels were observed between parental lines post-Salmonella infection.
- Identified four quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with Salmonella resistance on chromosomes 2, 3, 12, and 25.
- One genome-wide significant QTL was located on chromosome 2, with three additional chromosome-wide significant QTL identified.
Conclusions:
- The identified QTL provide valuable genetic markers for selecting Salmonella-resistant chickens.
- This genetic approach supports sustainable Salmonella control in poultry production.
- Findings will guide future breeding strategies to minimize Salmonella in commercial flocks and the food supply.
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