Breeding Physiology

Quantitative Trait Loci Analysis for Growth and Meat Quality Traits in the Pig

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Abstract

Genome scans can be used to identify chromosomal regions and eventually genes (called quantitative trait loci or QTL) that control quantitative traits of economic importance. A three-generation resource family was developed by using two Berkshire grand sires and nine Yorkshire grand dams to detect QTL for meat quality traits in pigs. A total of 525 F2 progeny from 65 F1 matings was produced. All F2 animals were phenotyped for 40 growth, carcass, meat quality, and sensory traits, and genotyped for 125 microsatellite markers covering the genome. A total of 100 significant QTL was detected at the 5% chromosome-wise level for growth (SSC 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 11, 13, 14, X), back fat (SSC1, 4, 5, 6, 7, 13, 14, 18), and meat quality and sensory traits (SSC1, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, X). Additional marker analyses and examination of positional candidate genes are underway.

Keywords: Food Science and Human Nutrition, ASL R664

How to Cite:

Malek, M., Rothschild, M. F., Dekkers, J. C., Lee, H. K., Huff-Lonergan, E. J., Baas, T. J. & Prusa, K. J., (2001) “Quantitative Trait Loci Analysis for Growth and Meat Quality Traits in the Pig”, Iowa State University Animal Industry Report 1(1).