Polymorphism of CAST gene in five sheep breeds in Bulgaria

CAST gene is a candidate marker that influences the intensity of growth and meat quality. The aim this study was to investigate genetic variability in five Bulgarian sheep breeds – two merino, local one for milk. A total 150 ewes, belonging these were investigated polymorphisms by using PCR-RFLP method. 622 bp fragment Ovis aries amplified PCR. After restriction with endonuclease MspI alleles observed Ascanian, Caucasian, Breznik Pleven Blackhead breeds. One allele (M) genotype (MM) detected Cooper-Red Shumen breed. highest frequency N established Ascanian merino breed (0.27) followed Caucasian (0.13), (0.12) (0.07). Two genotypes - MM MN, three possible found only ewes MM, MN NN. lowest homozygous (0.50) heterozygous (0.47). obtained results confirm method can be used identify different genotypic variation diversity calpastatin indicates that, after further associative studies, may included breeding programs certain