DNA Marker Genes in Pigs
As our knowledge of the Pig Genome increases we will uncover production genes which will determine the course of pig breeding.
Currently only a few genes are known with any real depth but more will be added
Production stage and gene name |
Production effect |
Characteristation of impact |
Finishing |
||
MC4R |
Growth |
AA – 3 days earlier to finish |
Lean |
GG – 8% less back fat |
|
GG – eats significantly less feed per kg of gain |
||
HMGA 1 |
Lean |
|
Growth |
|
|
CCKAR |
Feed intake, Hunger control and obesity |
|
PRKAG3 |
Meat quality |
Muscle glucogen content |
Meat quality |
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CAST (Calpastatin) |
Meat tenderness |
Proteases |
HAL |
Halothane gene |
Stress, PSE, post-weaning mortality |
RN- |
Napole gene |
|
Reproduction |
||
ESR |
Oestrogen receptor |
Litter size |
EPOR |
|
Uterine capacity and litter size |