Genetic labeling on litter litter size of the pig

摘要

Disclosed herein are genetic markers for pig litter size, methods for identifying such markers, and methods of screening pigs to determine those more likely to produce larger litters. The markers are based upon the presence or absence of polymorphisms in the pig estrogen receptor gene. Preferably, the polymorphism is a restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). A 4.3 kilobase fragment obtained by digesting pig genomic DNA with the restriction endonuclease Pvu II and detecting the fragments with a probe comprising a detectably labeled human estrogen receptor gene is associated with increased litter size.