Association of inhibin alpha gene polymorphism with litter size and growth in Malabari goats of India

The present study was carried out to identify single nucleotide variations in inhibin alpha (INHA)geneto evaluate its association with production traits in Malabari goats. A total of 251 Malabari adult goats were screened for polymorphism using PCR-SSCP.Representative samples of each SSCP pattern were sequenced to ascertain the genotypes. Five fragments, 274 bp, 220 bp, 160 bp, 287 bp and 253 bp covering the two exons of INHA were analyzed. The 274 bp fragment showed two diplotypes (AA and AB) and sequencing revealed one synonymous SNP (c.129 G > A) in exon 1. The AA genotype showed significant (p <= 0.05) association with body length. Similar monomorphic band pattern was observed for 220 bp fragment of exon 2. The 160 bp fragment exhibited two genotypes DD and DE with a synonymous SNP c.567 G > A in exon 2. Goats carrying DD genotype had significantly (p <= 0.05) higher adult body weight and body length compared to DE genotype. Three diplotypes, HH, HJ and JJ with a synonymous SNP, c.651 G > A were observed at 287 bp fragment. Significantly (p < 0.01) higher body length was noticed in goats with HJ and JJ genotypes. The 253 bp fragment of exon 2 exhibited three genotypes PP, PQ and QQ with a non synonymous SNP, c.911 T > C. Genotypes of INHA 253 bp (exon 2) locus had significant (p <= 0.05) influence on litter size, body weight and trunk circumference. The PP and PQ showed a significantly higher litter size and trunk circumference (p <= 0.05) compared to QQ genotypes.Present study indicated the potential role of INHA gene on reproduction and growth, hence it can be used as a candidate gene in the improvement of Malabari goats.