Study of genetic variability in pigs after the traditional breeding program

Area of Science:

• Animal Genetics
• Molecular Biology
• Quantitative Genetics

Background:

• Molecular markers are crucial for enhancing genetic gains in livestock.
• Understanding allele and genotype frequencies is essential for breeding programs.
• The Large White pig population was studied for economically important genetic traits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the security of molecular marker gene alleles in a purebred pig population.
• To assess genetic diversity for economically important characteristics in Large White pigs.

Main Methods:

• DNA extraction from hair samples of 272 Large White pigs.
• ARMS-PCR Multiplex and RFLP-PCR techniques were used for genotyping.
• Analysis of DGAT1, LEPR, H-FABP, MC4R, SREBF1, and GH genes.

Main Results:

• No polymorphisms were detected in DGAT1, LEPR, H-FABP, and SREBF1 genes.
• MC4R marker exhibited 100% heterozygosity.
• GH gene analysis showed high frequencies for D1D2 (88%) and D2D2 (22%) genotypes, with D2 allele at 89%.

Conclusions:

• Intense selection in commercial pig breeds likely explains the low polymorphism observed.
• The limited genetic diversity in studied markers may affect future genetic improvement strategies.
• Further research is needed to explore other markers for enhanced genetic gain in pigs.