Genome-wide association study and pathway analysis identify NTRK2 as a novel candidate gene for litter size in sheep.

ABSTRACT: Litter size is one of the most important economic traits in sheep. Identification of gene variants that are associated with the prolificacy rate is an important step in breeding program success and profitability of the farm. So, to identify genetic mechanisms underlying the variation in litter size in Iranian Baluchi sheep, a two-step genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed. GWAS was conducted using genotype data from 91 Baluchi sheep. Estimated breeding values (EBVs) for litter size calculated for 3848 ewes and then used as the response variable. Besides, a pathway analysis using GO and KEGG databases were applied as a complementary approach. A total of three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with litter size were identified, one each on OAR2, OAR10, and OAR25.

SUBMITTER: Esmaeili-Fard SM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7822323 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature