The association of genetic variations in the promoter region of myostatin gene with growth traits in Duroc pigs

Anim Biotechnol. 2012;23(4):291-8. doi: 10.1080/10495398.2012.709205.

Abstract

Average daily gain (ADG) and feed efficiency (FE) are important factors for assessing productivity in farm animals. Myostatin (MSTN), previously called GDF8, is a member of transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily. It is a negative regulator for both embryonic development and adult homeostasis of skeletal muscle. In this study, the genotypes of MSTN g.435G > A and g.447A > G SNPs in Duroc pigs were determined. The 435GG/447AA individually had significantly higher ADG (P < 0.01), body weight at 70 d (P < 0.05) and 150 d (P < 0.01), and a lower age at 110 kg (P < 0.01) than 435AA/447GG individuals. Dose dependent genetic additive effects were found for the negative effects of the 435A/447 G allele for ADG and body weight on 70 d and 150 d. The 435A/447 G allele also increased the age at 110 kg about 1.47 and 4.53% for 1 and 2 copies, respectively. The MSTN 435 G/447A allele increased the age at 110 kg about 1.41 and 4.47% for 1 and 2 copies, respectively. Overall, the two mutated MSTN 435A/447G allele had negative effects on ADG (P < 0.01), body weight at 70 d (P < 0.05), and 150 d (P < 0.001) and increased the age at 110 kg (P < 0.001). The present study provided evidence that MSTN g.435G > A and g.447A > G affected growth in Duroc pigs. The effects of the mutated alleles were additive with the maximal effects resulting from two copies of the wild-type allele. Selection for the 435 G/447A allele is expected to increase ADG, body weight and decrease the age at 110 kg in Duroc pigs and might be used in porcine breeding programs.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Eating / genetics
  • Myostatin / genetics*
  • Promoter Regions, Genetic
  • Sus scrofa / genetics*
  • Sus scrofa / growth & development*
  • Weight Gain / genetics*

Substances

  • Myostatin