Genetic Differences Reveal Key Genes for Muscle Growth in Different Pig Breeds

Jenn Hoskins
13th June, 2024

Genetic Differences Reveal Key Genes for Muscle Growth in Different Pig Breeds

Image Source: Magda Ehlers (photographer)

Key Findings

  • Researchers studied Tibetan pigs (TIB) and Large white pigs (LW) to understand genetic differences affecting growth rate and body size
  • TIB pigs have slower growth rates and smaller body sizes compared to LW pigs due to specific genetic variations
  • Identifying these genetic markers can help improve pig breeding programs for better growth rates and larger body sizes
Tibetan pigs (TIB) are known for their slow growth rate and smaller body size compared to Large white pigs (LW). The underlying genetic basis for these differences has been largely uncertain until now. Researchers from the Yunnan Academy of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences conducted a comprehensive study to address this knowledge gap by employing whole-genome sequencing of both TIB and LW pigs and integrating existing NCBI sequencing datasets[1]. The study aimed to identify specific genetic variations that contribute to the differences in growth rate and body size between the two pig breeds. By using a cutoff value of 0.50 for SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) allele frequency and absolute allele frequency differences (△AF) between the TIB and LW populations, researchers were able to pinpoint the predominant SNPs in each breed. Previous research has shown that different pig breeds exhibit varying traits based on their genetic makeup and environmental adaptations. For instance, Yorkshire pigs (YP), Qingyu Pigs (QYP), and Tibetan pigs (TP) living at different altitudes have distinct meat quality traits and gene expression patterns[2]. YP had the best carcass traits, while QYP had the highest back fat thickness and intramuscular fat (IMF) content. TP, adapted to high-altitude conditions, exhibited unique gene expressions related to angiogenesis and hypoxia[2]. Similarly, a study on Tibetan pigs, Landrace, and Meishan pigs revealed significant differences in the expression of genes associated with muscle growth and adipose deposition[3]. Tibetan pigs showed a higher growth intensity of skeletal muscle compared to IMF, with specific genes being upregulated or downregulated to adapt to their high-altitude environment[3]. The current study builds on these findings by focusing on the genetic variations between TIB and LW pigs. The researchers identified a comprehensive set of genetic variations for each breed, which could explain the differences in their growth rates and body sizes. The predominant SNPs detected in the TIB population may be linked to their slower growth rate and smaller body size, while those in the LW population could be associated with their faster growth rate and larger body size. Understanding the genetic basis of these differences is crucial for improving pig breeding programs. By identifying specific genetic markers, breeders can select for desirable traits such as faster growth rates and larger body sizes. This could lead to more efficient and productive pig farming practices. The findings from this study also have implications for understanding the adaptive mechanisms of different pig breeds. For example, the unique genetic characteristics of Tibetan pigs, which have likely evolved to adapt to high-altitude conditions, can provide insights into how animals adapt to extreme environments. This knowledge can be applied to other livestock species and contribute to the development of more resilient breeds. In conclusion, the study conducted by the Yunnan Academy of Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Sciences provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of growth rate and body size differences between Tibetan and Large white pigs. By identifying specific genetic variations, the researchers have taken a significant step towards improving pig breeding programs and understanding the adaptive mechanisms of different pig breeds. These findings build on previous research and contribute to the broader understanding of animal genetics and breeding.

GeneticsBiochemAnimal Science

References

Main Study

1) Whole-genome SNP allele frequency differences between Tibetan and Large white pigs reveal genes associated with skeletal muscle growth

Published 12th June, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12864-024-10508-7

Related Studies

2) High Altitude Adaptability and Meat Quality in Tibetan Pigs: A Reference for Local Pork Processing and Genetic Improvement.

https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9121080

3) Distinct expression patterns of genes associated with muscle growth and adipose deposition in tibetan pigs: a possible adaptive mechanism for high altitude conditions.

https://doi.org/10.1089/ham.2008.1042


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