Overexpression of beta-subunit of thyroid-stimulating hormone in Meishan swine identified by differential display

Anterior pituitary gland RNA isolated from Meishan (MS) and White Composite (WC) sexually mature boars was compared by a newly developed method of differential expression cloning called differential display. A number of cDNAs were identified that differed distinctly in expression between these breeds. The gene for beta-subunit of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH-beta) was initially identified as more highly expressed in MS than in WC boars. Subsequently, RNase protection assays and TSH RIA were used to quantify the magnitude of differences in transcription and translation in both males and females. Mature MS pigs had threefold greater expression of TSH-beta (P < .05) and greater plasma TSH concentrations than mature WC pigs (P < .01). The cDNA cloning and sequence analyses indicate identity in TSH-beta mRNA between MS and WC males. Elevated plasma TSH concentration may contribute MS pigs reaching sexual maturity earlier than WC or other European breeds. The method used in this study provides a useful molecular tool 1) to detect differentially expressed genes, 2) to study genetic variation that occurs at the transcription level between individuals, populations, or breeds; and additionally, 3) to identify candidate genes that control economically important quantitative traits in livestock.