Genes and genetic markers for improved reproductive traits in animals

摘要

Disclosed herein are genetic markers for favorable reproductive traits in animals such as litter size, and weaning weight. Methods for identifying such markers, and methods of screening animals to determine those more likely to produce favorable reproductive traits and preferably selecting those animals for future breeding purposes. The markers are based upon the presence or absence of certain polymorphisms in the pig reproductive genes, including retinol binding protein 4, retinoic acid receptor gamma, melatonin receptor 1a, and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1