Using High-Density SNP Array to Reveal Selection Signatures Related to Prolificacy in Chinese and Kazakhstan Sheep Breeds

摘要

Genetic improvement of litter size trait in domestic animals is an appealing way to improve production efficiency. In our study, the selection signatures between multiparous and uniparous sheep populations are identified, so that potential pathways and candidate genes related to litter size were screened out. Our findings help better understand the mechanisms of selection underlying the prolificacy trait in sheep and other mammals.