Proteome changes of beef in Nellore cattle with different genotypes for tenderness

Area of Science:

• Animal Genetics
• Proteomics
• Meat Science

Background:

• Meat tenderness is a crucial quality trait in beef cattle.
• Genetic polymorphisms in genes like CAPN4751 and UOGCAST are potential markers for meat quality.
• Understanding the molecular basis of meat tenderness can improve breeding strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between CAPN4751 and UOGCAST polymorphisms and meat tenderness in Nellore cattle.
• To analyze the impact of these genotypes on the Longissimus muscle proteomic profile.
• To identify specific proteins affected by these genetic variations.

Main Methods:

• Genotyping of 155 Nellore cattle for CAPN4751 and UOGCAST polymorphisms.
• Phenotyping for shear force (SF) at 1, 7, and 14 days of aging.
• Proteomic analysis of Longissimus muscle using 2DE and mass spectrometry.

Main Results:

• Significant association found between UOGCAST and CAPN4751 genotypes and meat tenderness.
• The CC genotype for both markers was associated with lower shear force, indicating greater tenderness.
• Differential expression of 40 protein spots, including those involved in muscle metabolism like myosin, actin, troponin, and heat shock proteins.

Conclusions:

• UOGCAST and CAPN4751 genotypes influence meat tenderness in Nellore cattle.
• These genetic variations affect the expression of proteins crucial for muscle metabolism.
• Genotyping for these markers can aid in selecting cattle with enhanced meat quality traits.