Genome-wide Association Study for Carcass Primal Cut Yields Using Single-step Bayesian Approach in Hanwoo Cattle

Area of Science:

• Animal Genetics
• Quantitative Genetics
• Genomic Selection

Background:

• Growing demand for high-quality beef necessitates advancements in production efficiency and carcass value.
• Primal cut yields are key indicators of carcass composition, influencing grade and market price.
• Limited genome-wide association studies (GWAS) exist for beef carcass primal cut traits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify genomic regions and candidate genes associated with 10 primal cut traits in Hanwoo cattle.
• To utilize a single-step Bayesian regression (ssBR) approach for robust genetic analysis.
• To uncover genetic underpinnings of carcass composition for breeding programs.

Main Methods:

• Genomic data quality control and filtering of SNPs and animals.
• Application of single-step Bayesian regression (ssBR) for GWAS.
• Identification of significant genomic regions and candidate genes using statistical thresholds.

Main Results:

• 16 significant genomic regions (1-Mb windows) were identified, with five large-effect quantitative trait loci (QTLs) affecting multiple traits.
• Trait-specific QTLs were also identified on various chromosomes.
• 154 candidate genes within significant regions, including TOX, SPP1, and NCAPG, were highlighted.
• Enrichment analysis revealed involvement in growth, lipid metabolism, and signaling pathways.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully identified key genomic regions and candidate genes regulating carcass primal cut yields in Hanwoo cattle.
• These findings provide a foundation for marker-assisted selection to improve beef quality and production.
• Understanding these genetic mechanisms is crucial for optimizing beef cattle breeding strategies.