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Animal reproduction science2016; 171; 81-86; doi: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.06.002

Genome-wide association study for semen quality traits in German Warmblood stallions.

Abstract: We performed a genome-wide association study for semen quality traits in 139 German Warmblood stallions. Stallions were genotyped using the Illumina equine SNP50 Beadchip. Traits analysed were de-regressed estimated breeding values (EBVs) for gel-free volume, sperm concentration, total number of sperm, progressive motility and the total number of progressively motile sperm. The GWAS revealed 29 SNPs on 12 different chromosomes as genome-wide significantly associated with semen quality traits. For ten genomic regions we could retrieve candidate genes influencing stallion fertility. Among the candidate genes, we could find the genes encoding cysteine-rich secretory proteins (CRISP1, CRISP2 and CRISP3). This was the first GWAS in horses performed for semen quality traits.
Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
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Publication Date: 2016-06-08 PubMed ID: 27334685DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.06.002Google Scholar: Lookup
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Summary

This research summary has been generated with artificial intelligence and may contain errors and omissions. Refer to the original study to confirm details provided. Submit correction.

This research aimed to study the genetic factors associated with semen quality in German Warmblood stallions using a genome-wide association study, revealing 29 significant SNPs related to semen quality traits.

Objective of the Research

The objective of this research was to conduct a genome-wide association study (GWAS) in order to identify genetic variants that may influence semen quality traits in German Warmblood stallions. This involved the analysis of de-regressed estimated breeding values (EBVs) for various factors such as gel-free volume, sperm concentration, total number of sperm, progressive motility, and total number of progressively motile sperm.

Methodology and Techniques

  • The research was carried out on 139 German Warmblood stallions.
  • Genotyping was completed using the Illumina equine SNP50 Beadchip.
  • The GWAS involved the analysis of de-regressed EBVs for the semen quality traits listed above.

Results of the Study

  • The GWAS results showed 29 SNPs, or single nucleotide polymorphisms, on 12 different chromosomes that were significantly associated with semen quality traits. SNPs are common genetic variations that occur when a single nucleotide in the genome sequence is altered.
  • An examination of ten genomic regions revealed candidate genes that could influence stallion fertility.
  • Among these candidate genes were those encoding cysteine-rich secretory proteins (CRISP1, CRISP2 and CRISP3).

Significance and Impact of Study

  • This study is the first of its kind to use GWAS to investigate semen quality traits in horses.
  • The identification of genetic variants influencing semen quality could help breeders select stallions with high-quality semen.
  • Understanding the genetic basis of semen quality could contribute to more effective breeding practices in the horse industry.

Cite This Article

APA
Gottschalk M, Metzger J, Martinsson G, Sieme H, Distl O. (2016). Genome-wide association study for semen quality traits in German Warmblood stallions. Anim Reprod Sci, 171, 81-86. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anireprosci.2016.06.002

Publication

Animal reproduction science
ISSN: 1873-2232
NlmUniqueID: 7807205
Country: Netherlands
Language: English
Volume: 171
Pages: 81-86

Researcher Affiliations

Gottschalk, Maren
  • Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (Foundation), Hannover, Germany.
Metzger, Julia
  • Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (Foundation), Hannover, Germany.
Martinsson, Gunilla
  • State Stud Celle of Lower Saxony, Spörckenstraße 10, 29221 Celle, Germany.
Sieme, Harald
  • Unit of Reproductive Medicine-Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (Foundation), Hannover, Germany.
Distl, Ottmar
  • Institute for Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (Foundation), Hannover, Germany. Electronic address: ottmar.distl@tiho-hannover.de.

MeSH Terms

  • Animals
  • Genome-Wide Association Study / veterinary
  • Horses / genetics
  • Horses / physiology
  • Male
  • Semen / physiology
  • Semen Analysis / veterinary

Citations

This article has been cited 18 times.
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