ESTRUS BEHAVIOUR AND REPRODUCTIVE TRAITS OF PULAWSKA GILTS ASSOCIATED WITH SELECTED GENE POLYMORPHISMS

Searching for the associations between the gene polymorphism and the reproductive traits is essential in defining the genetic native breed specificity, which distinguishes them from the other breeds. The aim of our study was to determine the associations between mutations in the PRL, PRLR, PTGS2, FUT1 genes and sexual and periparturient activity in native Pulawska gilts. The analysis included 72 animals which gave birth to the first litter. Evaluation of the productive value of gilts accounted for indicators of sexual and periparturient activity as well as reproductive traits. The biological material for molecular analyses was obtained from the hair roots of the gilts. The genotype was verified by PCR RELP analysis. The primers and PCR conditions were determined on the basis of available literature data. Statistically significant differences (P <= 0.05) were found at the PRL locus: gilts of AA genotypes (Ins/Ins) at the PRL locus were characterised by longest farrowing duration compared to gilts of AB genotype (P <= 0.05). The analysis of PRLR gene showed that gilts of TT genotype revealed a tendency for later occurrence of estrus signs (first and second estrus) and for the markedly longest farrowings (P <= 0.05). With regard to PTGS2 and FUT1 loci, no significant differences were found in the parameters of sexual and periparturient activity of the gilts. However, gilts of FUT1 GG genotype gave birth to and reared the largest first litters (P <= 0.05). The results of the studies expand the knowledge about the genetic structure and productivity of Pulawska gilts.

Automated summary

In this study, the associations between gene polymorphisms and reproductive traits in native Pulawska gilts were investigated. The results showed that mutations in PRL and PRLR genes were associated with farrowing duration and timing of estrus signs, while PTGS2 and FUT1 gene variations showed no significant correlations with sexual and periparturient activity in the gilts. This research expands the understanding of the genetic structure and productivity of Pulawska gilts.