Association of HinfI polymorphism in the leptin gene with production traits in White Improved pig breed

Abstract

The HinfI polymorphism in fatness related leptin gene (LEP) has been characterized and evaluated for its association with economically important meat production traits in the population of White Improved pig breed. The data obtained from the PCR-RFLP genotyping of 96 sows indicate the frequencies of 0.71 and 0.29 for LEP-HinfI allele T and C, respectively. The results of GLM analysis demonstrate, that the LEP gene contributes to average daily gain (ADG) but no significant effect was shown in case of backfat thickness (ABF) and lean meat (LM). Highly significant differences (P ≤ 0.01) were found between LEP genotypes and ADG, where allele C is associated with increased daily gain.The statistical analysis of leptin mRNA levels in adipose tissue of selected animals demonstrates that leptin mRNA level is not altered by LEP-HinfI genotype.