EFFECTS OF LACTOFERRIN SNP GENOTYPE AND BREED ON MILK AND BIOMETRIC TRAITS OF BUNAJI AND SOKOTO GUDALI COWS

Abstract

This study was conducted on a total of 87 cows of two major Nigerian breeds (Bunaji and Sokoto Gudali) with the aim to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at Lactoferrin (LTF) locus and to study association between the obtained LTF genotypes and milk yield, milk protein, milk fat, milk lactose, height at withers, body length, chest circumference, udder length and udder circumference. Polymorphism of bovine lactoferrin locus was determined by using restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Lactoferrin gene showed varied levels of polymorphism among Bunaji and Sokoto Gudali cattle. Three genotypes were identified (AA, AB and BB) in both cattle breeds. The mean analysis showed varying interaction effects of SNP genotype and breed on milk and biometric traits, with genotype AA of the Sokoto Gudali exhibiting distinct superiority. Variation at the LTF locus may prove to be important in possible selection and breeding for genetic improvement in milk quality and yield in the tropics. Therefore, the SNP genotype AA of the Sokoto Gudali be further investigated to exploit its full potential in milk yield and biometric advantage.