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GWAS Reveals Key Candidate Genes Associated with Milk-Production in Saanen Goats
Fu Li1, Yonglong He1, Hanbing Yan1
1College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling 712100, China.
Animals : an Open Access Journal From MDPI
|November 27, 2025
Summary
Researchers identified four key genes influencing milk production in dairy goats through genome-wide association studies. These genetic markers offer a basis for improving milk yield and understanding mammary gland function.
Area of Science:
- Animal Genetics
- Genomics
- Dairy Science
Background:
- Milk production is a crucial economic trait in dairy goats.
- Milk production is influenced by multiple genes, making it a complex polygenic trait.
- Identifying genetic markers can improve milk production potential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify genetic markers associated with milk production traits in dairy goats.
- To discover candidate genes regulating milk production.
- To provide a theoretical basis for improving dairy goat breeding.
Main Methods:
- High-throughput sequencing of 350 Saanen dairy goats.
- Genome-wide association study (GWAS) on sequencing and production data.
- Identification and validation of candidate genes using subsequent experiments.
Main Results:
- Identified 9,667,930 valid single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).
- Selected 318 SNP loci and 244 candidate genes, finally identifying four key genes: CDC14A, F11, RBPJL, and ZFAND2A.
- Confirmed that these four genes regulate mammary epithelial cell proliferation and secretion via MAPK and mTOR pathways.
Conclusions:
- Four candidate genes (CDC14A, F11, RBPJL, ZFAND2A) are strongly associated with milk production traits in dairy goats.
- These genes regulate mammary epithelial cell function, impacting milk yield.
- Findings provide valuable genetic markers and insights into mammary gland mechanisms for dairy goat improvement.
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