Mapping Quality Traits in Pigs
Author Information
Author(s): Heuven Henri CM, van Wijk Rik HJ, Dibbits Bert, van Kampen Tony A, Knol Egbert F, Bovenhuis Henk
Primary Institution: Animal Breeding and Genomics Centre, Wageningen University
Hypothesis
Can we identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) affecting carcass and meat quality in pigs using variance component methods?
Conclusion
Significant QTL affecting meat and carcass quality were found on chromosome 2 in a large commercial population of pigs.
Supporting Evidence
- The study identified several QTL significantly affecting traits like loin muscle mass and ham weight.
- Variance component methods allowed for the detection of QTL segregating in both paternal and maternal lines.
- The results were consistent with previous studies on QTL involving chromosome 2.
Takeaway
Scientists looked at a lot of pigs to find out which genes help make their meat better. They found some important genes that can help farmers breed better pigs.
Methodology
Variance component methods were used to identify QTL affecting meat and carcass quality traits in a crossbred population of pigs.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from using a commercial population that has been under selection for several decades.
Limitations
The study may not account for all genetic variations due to the specific population structure used.
Participant Demographics
The study involved 1855 commercial finishing pigs from a cross of 17 boars and 239 hybrid sows.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.005
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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