Genetic Effects on Coat Colour in Cattle
Author Information
Author(s): Beatriz Gutiérrez-Gil, Pamela Wiener, John L. Williams
Primary Institution: Roslin Institute (Edinburgh)
Hypothesis
What genetic factors influence coat colour dilution in Charolais × Holstein cattle?
Conclusion
The study identified a major locus on bovine chromosome 5 responsible for coat colour dilution in Charolais crossbred cattle.
Supporting Evidence
- Highly significant genome-wide associations were detected on chromosome 5 for the three traits analysed.
- The SILV gene was identified as a strong candidate for the coat colour dilution phenotype.
- A previously reported non-synonymous mutation in the SILV gene was associated with coat colour dilution.
Takeaway
This study looked at how certain genes affect the colour of cattle's coats, finding that a specific gene on chromosome 5 plays a big role in making their coats lighter.
Methodology
A genome scan was performed using an F2-Backcross Charolais × Holstein population to identify genetic loci associated with coat colour dilution.
Limitations
Some discrepancies were found between the SILV c.64A>G mutation and the dilution phenotype, suggesting other genetic factors may also influence coat colour.
Participant Demographics
The study included 436 cattle, comprising 273 F2 individuals and 163 reciprocal backcrosses.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.0001
Confidence Interval
5–6 cM for Quantitative-Black and Quantitative-Dilution; 19 cM for Quantitative-Red
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website