QTLs and Candidate Genes Associated with Semen Traits in Merino Sheep.

ABSTRACT: Ram semen traits play a significant role in conception outcomes, which in turn may influence reproductive efficiency and the overall productivity and profitability of sheep enterprises. Since hundreds of ewes may be inseminated from a single ejaculate, it is important to evaluate semen quality prior to use in sheep breeding programs. Given that semen traits have been found to be heritable, genetic variation likely contributes to the variability observed in these traits. Identifying such genetic variants could provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying variability in semen traits. Therefore, this study aimed to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with semen traits in Merino sheep. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was undertaken using 4506 semen coll

SUBMITTER: Hodge MJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10376747 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature