Animal Molecular Breeding 2024, Vol.14, No.1, 45-53 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/amb 48 3 Key Genes and Genetic Markers in Livestock Production Traits The genetic background of livestock production traits is one of the crucial factors affecting their production characteristics. In recent years, with the development of GWAS technology, a series of key genes and genetic markers have been revealed, playing a significant role in deciphering the genetic basis of livestock production traits. 3.1 Key genes identified through GWAS GWAS is a systematic approach that identifies genes associated with target traits by analyzing large-scale genotype and phenotype data. This technology enables researchers to identify key genes related to livestock production traits at the whole-genome level. In revealing key genes for livestock production traits, it's essential first to understand the function and mechanism of these genes. For example, in dairy cows, genes encoding crucial proteins like milk fat synthase and milk proteins have been identified, which significantly impact the production and quality of dairy products (Zhao et al., 2024). Moreover, key genes regulating growth, reproduction, and other production traits have been discovered, participating in complex biochemical processes within the organism and affecting livestock production performance. The key genes identified through GWAS are closely associated with livestock production traits. Through the analysis of large-scale genotype and phenotype data, researchers can establish the relationship between specific genotypes and traits. This provides important evidence for selecting breeding targets. For instance, in pig growth traits, key genes related to growth rate and body weight gain have been found, where gene variations directly affect pigs' growth performance, thus offering crucial clues for breeding selection. 3.2 Application and interpretation of genetic markers Genetic markers are specific loci on the genome used to mark genes related to target traits. Among them, SNP (Single nucleotide polymorphism) and QTL (Quantitative trait loci) are two common types of genetic markers that play an essential role in revealing the genetic basis of livestock production traits. SNPs are common types of genetic variations in the genome. In GWAS, SNPs are widely used to identify genetic markers related to livestock production traits. By analyzing the SNP of livestock populations, researchers can pinpoint SNPs closely associated with target traits and further explore these loci's functions and mechanisms. This provides important molecular markers for genetic improvement, helping to accelerate the breeding process. QTLs are genes or genomic regions that affect quantitative traits. In the research of livestock production traits, QTLs are extensively used to locate genetic areas related to target traits. Through QTL mapping, researchers can determine genomic regions affecting specific production traits, thereby identifying key genes and functional elements (Figure 2). This offers vital clues for understanding the genetic mechanisms behind livestock production traits, providing more precise targets for genetic improvement. The key genes and genetic markers identified through GWAS provide critical evidence for understanding the genetic basis of livestock production traits. These research findings offer significant theoretical support and practical guidance for livestock genetic improvement, contributing to enhanced livestock production performance and economic benefits. 4 Application of GWAS in Improving Livestock Production Traits In improving livestock production traits, genome-wide association studies (GWAS) are being extensively applied as a powerful genetic tool. By analyzing large-scale genomic data, GWAS can reveal key genes and genetic markers that influence livestock production traits, providing new approaches and strategies for genetic improvement in livestock.
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