Screening leptin gene target for PCR-RFLP and heterosis value in crossbred cattle

Abstract

            Crossbreeding enhances the genetic potential of livestock, with Brahman Cross cattle excel in adaptability, while Belgian Blue crossbred and Galician Blonde Crossbred exhibit superior growth. This study aimed to analyze single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variations in the leptin gene, identify appropriate restriction enzymes, evaluate heterosis effects, and assess the association with growth traits in Brahman Cross, Belgian Blue crossbred, and Galician Blonde crossbred cattle. A total of 115 cattle were genotyped, consisting of 10 Brahman Cross, 20 Galician Blonde Crossbred, and 85 Belgian Blue crossbred. Blood samples were collected, and DNA was extracted. Amplification DNA of the leptin gene were performed using PCR method. The SNP analysis revealed  that Belgian Blue crossbred has highest SNPs (17 SNPs) than Galician Blonde crossbred (9 SNPs) and Brahman Cross (10 SNPs) from a total of 25 SNPs. The BmgBI restriction enzyme  was spesific for Belgian Blue Crossbred genotyping, and HindIII restriction enzyme  was selected as a candidate marker for genotyping bethween Brahman Cross, Galacian Blonde crossbred, and Belgian Blue crossbred. The association of genotype and growth trait in Brahman Cross cattle was not significant. The TC genotype in Belgian Blue crossbred showed superior growth traits at birth, weaning, and one year of age. Meanwhile, the CC genotype in Galician Blonde crossbred was associated with better performance than the other genotypes. The heterosis analysis revealed that Belgian Blue crossbred displayed a higher heterosis effect compared to Galician Blonde crossbred. Single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variations from this study contribute to a better understanding of variation in crossbred cattle in Indonesia. These findings provide valuable insights into the genetic structure of the leptin gene and lay the foundation for marker assisted selection strategies.