Identification and association analysis of PELP1, RFC2 and ABHD11 polymorphisms with bodyweight and backfat thickness in large white Yorkshire pigs

Genetic markers play a crucial role in enhancing selective breeding strategies for economically important traits in livestock. This study aimed to investigate the genetic variability and functional significance of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in three candidate genes—PELP1 RFC2, and ABHD11 and their association with growth performance traits in the Large White Yorkshire (LWY) pig population of Kerala. High-resolution melting (HRM) analysis followed by Sanger sequencing was employed to detect SNPs in the coding regions of the selected genes. Identified SNPs were evaluated for their potential impact on protein function and genotypic variation. Association analysis was performed using multinomial logistic regression to assess the relationship between gene polymorphisms and phenotypic traits such as body weight and backfat thickness. Three non-synonymous SNPs were identified: c.3514G>A in PELP1, c.905G>A in RFC2, and c.953A>G in ABHD11. Association analysis revealed significant correlations between the RFC2 GA and ABHD11 AA genotypes and higher body weight, suggesting a potential role in growth performance. No significant association was observed between PELP1 polymorphism and either body weight or backfat thickness. These findings suggested that RFC2 and ABHD11 polymorphisms may serve as valuable molecular markers for selection in pig breeding programs.