Genetic markers on reproductive traits in pigs.

Abstract

Information on genetic markers related to reproductive traits in pig is now available for selection scheme in practice. To verify the association between markers and traits of interest, general linear model included genotype, breed group of sow, year-season of farrowing and parity as fixed effects, and random effect was residual. Genetic markers of ESR and LEP genes were significantly associated to litter size (LS), mummified piglets (MM) and weaning to estrus interval (WEI) of purebred Landrace and Yorkshire sows in a Thai commercial population while the ADIPO and PEG1 genes were not affected to the studied traits. The ESR genotypes significantly influenced only LS (p=0.026). Genotypes of the LEP gene affected LS (p=0.022), MM (p=0.038) and WEI (p=0.027). Significant effects of additive and dominance were found only in LEPI gene. Addition of T allele decreased MM (p = 0.013), but increased WEI (p=0.009). However, the heterozygous CT was found to increase in LS (p=0.009). Landrace sows produced higher LS than Yorkshire. The first parity sows produced small LS and prolong WEI. The difference of year-season of farrowing had significant influence on STB only (p<0.001). For this population, the ESR and LEP genes could be considered in marker assisted selection program for genetic improvement and overall economic returns of sow reproduction.