Variation in skeletal muscle development regulator genes in Wagyu cattle imported into Türkiye

The Wagyu breed is renowned for its exceptionally high marbling rate and abundant carcass fat content. Understanding the genetics of beef cattle relies heavily on comprehending the biological pathways regulating skeletal muscle development. Muscle development and lipid metabolism are crucial elements of biological regulation, particularly in beef cattle. Variation in relevant genes and the presence of desired genotypes play crucial roles in these processes. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the genetic variation associated with skeletal muscle development and lipid metabolism in Wagyu cattle imported to Türkiye. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples collected from 48 cattle using the phenol-chloroform isoamyl alcohol method. Genotyping was performed using the PCR-RFLP method, targeting a panel of genes, including OLR1, ANXA9, MYF5, IGF1, LGB, MYOD1, GHR, CAPN1, and LEP, recognized as strong candidates associated with beef yield and quality. Population genetic parameters, including heterozygosity (He), polymorphism information content (PIC), and effective allele number (Ne), were computed, and adherence to the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (HWE) was assessed. The ANXA9, IGF1, CAPN1, and LEP markers were in accordance with HWE (P>0.05). No animals were identified with OLR1-CC and CAPN1-CC genotypes. The CAPN1-GG allele exhibited the highest frequency in the population, calculated at 0.88. The LGB marker showed the highest heterozygosity (~0.50). To the best of our knowledge, this constitutes the inaugural genetic investigation conducted among Wagyu cattle reared in Türkiye. These findings provide valuable insights for studies on genetic diversity and breeding programs targeting the Wagyu breed.