Genome-Wide Association Study of First-Parity Reproductive Traits in Suzi Pig.

Area of Science:

• Animal Genetics
• Reproductive Biology
• Genomics

Background:

• Reproductive traits are crucial for swine production efficiency.
• Understanding the genetic basis of these traits is essential for selective breeding programs.
• Suzi pigs are a valuable indigenous breed with unique reproductive characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a genome-wide association study (GWAS) for first-parity reproductive traits in Suzi pigs.
• To identify significant single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with reproductive performance.
• To pinpoint candidate genes influencing these economically important traits.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Zhongxin 50K SNP chip, simplified genome sequencing, resequencing, and the 100K SNP liquid chip for genome-wide SNP detection in 898 Suzi sows.
• Integrated genotype and phenotype data for GWAS, gene annotation, and enrichment analysis.
• Performed genome-wide variance component analysis to estimate heritability.

Main Results:

• Identified 60 significant SNPs associated with 10 first-parity reproductive traits (AFS, AFF, NNB, NH, NW, NS, NM, ND, PB, CCN) in 574 sows.
• Chromosome 2 harbored the highest proportion (25%) of significant SNPs.
• Discovered 20 candidate genes, with 'NM' exhibiting the highest heritability (0.65-0.7).
• Gene Ontology and KEGG pathway analyses highlighted roles in cell adhesion, neuron development, and metabolic pathways.

Conclusions:

• The identified SNPs and candidate genes provide valuable genetic resources for enhancing reproductive traits in Suzi pigs.
• These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the genetic architecture of pig reproduction.
• This research supports the development of marker-assisted selection strategies for pig breeding programs.