The effect of the SCD genotype on litter size and weight at weaning

Genetic markers associated with meat quality may have adverse effects on reproduction performance, as shown for a variant in the leptin receptor (LEPR) gene. There is single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) stearoyl-CoA desaturase (SCD) gene that influences monounsaturated fatty acid content of pork. Here, we investigate and combined SCD (rs80912566 T>C) LEPR (rs709596309 C>T) SNP litter size weaning weight. A total 1,246 sows known genotype (732 which were also genotyped LEPR) monitored age at farrowing, number piglets born, born alive weaned, weight during two years. The these diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 2 (DGAT2) milk fat composition analysed 99 primiparous sows. No overall reproductive performance observed. However, sows, found SCD-T allele, one increases content, influenced negatively (the from SCD-TT weighted 126 g less than those SCD-CT sows), especially combination LEPR-TT SCD-TT/LEPR-TT 277 SCD-C−/LEPR-C− sows). In contrast to SCD, negative effect was maintained all parities (piglets average lighter LEPR-C− unfavourable allele could be due lower body reserves first farrowing (SCD-TT pigs had 0.62 mm backfat thickness 205 d pigs) together larger litters birth 0.32 more per showed higher desaturation indices (i.e. saturated ratios), but content. relevant DGAT2 traits found. conclusion, does not impact pigs, cautious management gilts recommended.