identification and development of molecular markers for genomic selection of iberian pigs

What We Do

Currently, identifying genetic markers in domesticated animals - species with complex genomes- is largely facilitated by the large quantity of sequential data that can be produced using high-performance sequencing technology (NGS - next generation sequencing). With Iberian pigs, it is possible to identify thousands of SNPs and then evaluate their effect on the phenotypical characteristics of economic interest such as growth, pig productivity and meat quality, in order to identify genetic markers involved with the genetic regulation of these characteristics. Genetic variation in the genomes of 2,000 specimens was studied and characterised.

The identification and validation of molecular markers associated with the phenotypes studied will be available for use in the career improvement programme with information on these markers along with phenotypical and pedigree records. This genetic evaluation when then allow the early identification of animals carrying the most favourable genotypes associated with better production which will benefit producers.

Moreover, a monitoring system will also be developed based on identifying specific SNPs for the different Iberian pig lines and other pig races. This system will be a very powerful tool for the molecular traceability of products based on these careers, the creation of a mechanism to protect producers from potential fraud and guarantee consumers’ food safety.

The proposal is based on the use of advanced sequencing technology (NGS) to identify the genetic variation (SNPs) present in each group of animals studied. Later, a statistical analysis will determine the effect of each SNP on the phenotype of interest and, therefore, identify the molecular markers associated with the improved productive actions.

Who Participates

Coordinated by: CEBAL
Participating partners: CEBAL and CICYTEX

How We Do It

• Identifying molecular markers for growth rate
• Identifying molecular markers for productivity
• The genetic characterisation of a population from the Valdesequera line
• Developing an Iberian pig molecular traceability system
• Designing and implementing an integrated database

Contacts

Activity Coordinator: António Marcos Ramos (CEBAL) | marcos.ramos@cebal.pt