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Major genes control hormone-induced ovulation rate in mice
1Department of Human Genetics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor 48109.
Journal of Reproduction and Fertility
|March 1, 1988
Summary
Genetic variation significantly impacts hormone-induced ovulation rate in mice. A small number of major genes control these differences, with six-fold variation observed across different mouse strains.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Genetics
- Animal science
Background:
- Hormone-induced ovulation is a key process in reproductive biology.
- Understanding the genetic basis of ovulation rate variation is crucial for animal breeding and reproductive research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify genetic variation in hormone-induced ovulation rate in mice.
- To determine the mode of inheritance and the number of loci controlling major genetic differences in ovulation rate.
- To identify specific mouse strains exhibiting significant differences in ovulation response.
Main Methods:
- Mice were administered pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to induce ovulation.
- Ovulation rate was assessed by counting oviducal eggs.
- Genetic analysis involved parental, F1, F2 generations, and recombinant inbred strains.
Main Results:
- Significant genetic differences in hormone-induced ovulation rate were observed among mouse strains, with a six-fold range.
- Seventy percent of the variation in ovulation rate was attributed to strain differences.
- The genetic differences between specific strains (A/J vs. C57BL/6J and A.SW/SnJ vs. SJL/J) were found to be controlled by a small number of loci (2-4).
Conclusions:
- A small number of major genes significantly influence hormone-induced ovulation rate in young mice.
- This genetic control suggests potential for targeted selection in breeding programs.
- The study highlights the substantial genetic component underlying variations in induced ovulation.
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