Genetics of ovulation rate in farm animals

Rate of ovulation (i.e.fecundity) is largely influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.The ovarian growth factors including members of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) play a central role in determining ovulation quota and litter size.Naturally occurring mutation in sheep and knock-out and knock-down studies in murine indicated the importance of bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15), growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein receptor 1B (BMPR1B) genes in mammals.These factors have major regulatory roles during the gonadotrophin-independent anddependent stages of follicle development.Understanding of BMPs in reproduction assists in the treatment of infertility/ sterility in animals.