Characterization of Type I molecular markers in a line of pigs selected for increased litter size.

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Date

2004-03-12

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Abstract

Direct selection for increased litter size was practiced for eleven generations in a Large White-Landrace composite line of pigs. Litters were standardized at birth so that no replacement gilts were reared in a litter with more than ten pigs. A contemporary control line was maintained. In generation nine, the estimated mean breeding value for litter size was 0.63 pigs greater in the select than control line. The objective of this research project was to test associations between Type I markers and response to selection. A candidate gene approach was employed to search for markers, which may explain some of the difference in litter size between the two lines. Two novel markers were discovered within the follistatin gene, which have shown associations with litter traits. The estrogen receptor marker was not segregating in the population of pigs used in this study. The retinol binding protein marker was segregating in the population studied; however the magnitude of allele frequency change was relatively small. Polymorphisms were not detected in other candidates tested.

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Keywords

reproduction, sus scrofa

Citation

Degree

MS

Discipline

Animal Science

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