Key points are not available for this paper at this time.
• Genomic selection improves dairy cattle traits, addressing global food demand. • SNP analysis reveals genetic markers influencing dairy cow conformation traits. • Genomic data enhance selection strategies for improving milk production efficiency. • SNPs on chromosomes 2, 6, and 24 linked to udder depth and milk quality. • Findings aid in optimizing dairy cow productivity and health through genomics. Genomic and phenotypic selections are pivotal in improving dairy cattle traits, including udder health and milk production, to meet the rising global demand for animal-derived food. The objective of this study was to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with conformation traits of Polish Holstein Friesian (PHF) cows. Data from 3,205 cows were analysed, out of which 376 were genotyped using SNP microarrays. A dataset of 55,352 SNP was included in the analysis. Additionally, phenotypic data covering 56 variables related to cow conformation traits were analysed. Results revealed 24 significant (P<0.001) SNPs associated with various traits, including udder conformation, feet and legs, and body size. Among these, 4 SNPs affected Udder depth; 3 SNPs influenced Foot angle and Rear teat placement; 2 SNPs were significantly associated with Body Depth, Height at the withers, Rear Legs Rear View, Fore Udder Attachment and Udder Width. Finally, 1 SNP had a significant impact on Front teat placement, Rump Angle, and Rear Legs Set. These findings demonstrate that SNP microarray data provide a framework for identifying genetic associations with conformation traits in dairy cows. This approach holds promise, particularly when combined with performance analysis, in exploring optimal conformation traits in cows predisposed to specific milking types.
Sitkowska et al. (Sat,) studied this question.