Additive Genetic Effects of RNF4, RBP4, and IGF2 Polymorphisms on Litter Size in Landrace and Yorkshire Sows

Abstract

The association of the RNF4, RBP4, and IGF2 genotypes and their additive genetic effects with litter size in purebred Landrace and Yorkshire sows were studied. The results revealed significant associations between the RNF4 and RBP4 genotypes with the total number of piglets born (TNB) and number of piglets born alive (NBA) traits (P <0.05). The RNF4 CC genotype had greater TNB and NBA than the TT genotype in both breeds. The RBP4 BB genotype had greater TNB and NBA than the AA genotype in the Landrace breed. Significant additive effects of the RNF4 and RBP4 genes on the TNB and NBA were detected (P <0.05). No significant associations of the IGF2 genotypes and their additive effects with any reproductive traits were observed in both Landrace and Yorkshire sows (P >0.05). The results suggested that the RNF4 and RBP4 genes could be useful in selection for increasing TNB and NBA traits in pigs.