Association of polymorphism in the promotor area of the caprine BMPR1B gene with litter size and body measurement traits in Damani goats.

This study aimed to explore polymorphisms in the promoter region of the caprine BMPR1B (Bone morphogenetic protein receptor 1 beta) gene and its association with body measurement and litter size traits in Damani does. A total of 53 blood samples were collected to analyze the association between the BMPR1B gene polymorphism and 11 phenotypic traits in Damani female goats. The results revealed that three novel SNPs were identified in the promoter region of the caprine BMPR1B gene, including g.67 A > C (SNP1), g.170 G > A(SNP2), and g.501A > T (SNP3), among which the SNP1 and SNP2 were significantly (p < 0.05) associated with litter size and body measurement traits in Damani goats. In SNP1 the AC genotype could be used as a marker for litter size, and the CC genotype for body weight in Damani goats. In SNP2, the genotype GG was significantly (p < 0.05) associated with ear and head length. Therefore, we can conclude from the present study, that genetic variants AC and CC of the caprine BMPR1B gene could be used as genetic markers for economic traits through marker-assisted selection for the breed improvement program of the Damani goat.