Melanocortin-4 receptor and leptin polymorphisms in MangalicaxDuroc and Mangalica pigs

The melanocortin-4 receptor and the adipocyte secreted hormone, leptin play pivotal roles in controlling feed intake and energy homeostasis of pigs through hypothalamic areas associated with the regulation of appetite. In this preliminary study the G1426A melanocortin-4 receptor (MC4R) and the T3469C leptin (LEP) genotypes were determined in 60 Blond MangalicaxDuroc F1 gifts and 20 purebred Blond Mangalica pigs by means of the polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method. In the F1 group statistical analyses revealed significant (P<0.05) differences between backfat thickness and Fat-O-Meater light reflectance values of different MC4R genotypes, whereas LEP polymorphism was associated (P<0.05) with average daily gain during the fattening period. The results suggest that both polymorphisms are promising markers for production traits related to fat deposition and feed intake in the F1 animals. Under identical feeding and housing conditions the crossbred group proved to be more efficient, since its meat production significantly (P<0.05) surpassed the purebred animals regarding many monitored traits, such as average daily gain, ham and shoulder weight and live weight before slaughter.