Sequence Characterization in 3′-Flanking Region of Bovine TNF-α: Association with Milk Production Traits and Somatic Cell Score in Holstein Cattle of Iran

Background: Tumor necrosis factor- a (TNF-α) is a cytokine that was identified as a factor with a wide range of proinflammatory activities. The expression of bovine TNF-α in mammary tissue during pregnancy seems to have a role in development of the corresponding glands.Objective: Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were defined in 3′-flanking region of bovine TNF-α in cattle. Moreover, its association with performance traits in Holstein dairy cattle was evaluated.Materials and Methods: The 3′-flanking region of TNF-α was screened by single strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) and DNA sequencing in Holstein cattle breed. SAS statistical software was used to analyze the relationship between different genotypes of amplified fragment with milk production traits (daily milk yield, fat and protein percentage) and somatic cell score (SCS).Results: A total of 6 distinct SSCP patterns were observed. It was further revealed to be 3 novel SNPs. Statistical analysis revealed that different haplotypes of amplified fragment in the TNF-α 3′-region had a significant effect on average daily milk production (p < 0.05), but no such correlation was established with fat percentage, protein percentage and SCS.Conclusion: The association identified in the 3′-flanking region of TNF-α may have potential to serve as candidate genetic marker for genomic selection in dairy cattle.