Polymorphism in the 5′-noncoding region of the bovine growth hormone receptor gene and its association with meat production traits in cattle

The single and combined effects of polymorphism in the 5'-noncoding region of the bovine growth hormone receptor (GHR) gene was examined on the traits related to feed intake and meat production in beef cattle. Four different single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) were analysed. Seventy-one young bulls belonging to four beef breeds (Charolais, Limousin, Aberdeen Angus, Hereford) and one dual purpose breed (Simmental) were included in the study. The traits analysed were daily weight gain, feed intake and conversion, and carcass parameters. The results showed that genetic variants at the 5'-noncoding region of the bovine GHR gene had a marked effect on beef production traits. The (-) allele at the polymorphic AluI site appeared favourable for weight of carcass and percentage of valuable cuts. The animals with the +/+ genotype for the RFLP-AccI polymorphism seemed better for the percent of lean in valuable cuts, while those with the +/+ genotype at the polymorphic Fnu4HI site appeared superior for daily gain and feed conversion during the feed test period. A higher percent of lean in valuable cuts was shown for the bulls of the -/- genotypes at the NsiI site. In addition, statistically significant associations were shown between combined GHR genotypes and feed consumption, carcass weight and dimensions.