Molecular characterization of the Cuban Siboney cattle
Abstract
The new genotype of the Cuban Siboney cattle (5/8H×3/8C) was obtained as part of the genetic improvement strategy to obtain cattle with best fitted behavior under the Cuban climatic conditions and adapted to the tropics. Until 2002, its genetic background had been evaluated based on genetic parameters (progeny and behavior tests, production, and butyric fat yields). The results of the molecular characterization of the Cuban Siboney cattle are presented, from breeds located at the Cuban western regions. The genotypes of cattle six major milk proteins were determined and associative studies to production characters were initiated. RAPD and microsatellite markers were also typified for biodiversity studies. Gene frequencies were obtained for the bovine growth hormone, prolactin and their receptors, and also stearyl-coenzyme A desaturase (SCD) and the diacylglycerol acyltransferase 1 (DAGT1), these two last genes involved in lipids metabolism as candidates for marker-assisted selection. It was demonstrated that the Cuban Siboney cattle has the genetic potential to persist as prominent breed for milk production purposes in the nationwide program of genetic improvement, with high genetic variability and its own molecular characteristics. These results can be used as tools to increase the selection efficiency and to provide greater knowledge on the studied breed.
