Identification of Genetic Variation of Melatonin Receptor 1A (MTNR1A) Gene in Kivircik Breed Ewes by MnlI and RsaI Restriction Enzymes

Abstract

Melatonin receptor 1A (MTNR1A) gene encodes melatonin hormone which regulates the function of seasonal reproductive activity in sheep. The aim of this study was to make the genetic characterization and identify the variant alleles of MTNR1A gene in Kivircik breed. Blood samples of 110 Kivircik sheep were collected from five different farms located in Kirklareli and Istanbul. DNA extraction was performed from blood samples. Exon 2, the polymorphic region of Melatonin receptor 1A gene, was amplified and PCR products were genotyped by using MnlI and RsaI enzymes. The observed alleles and genotypes for MnlI enzyme were; M (0.891), m (0.109) and MM (0.782), Mm (0.218) respectively. Kivircik sheep was null from mm genotype. Also identified alleles were C (0.682), T (0.318) and genotypes were CC (0.582), CT (0.200), TT (0.218) for RsaI enzyme. The most frequent genotypes were MM (78%) and CC (58%) in Kivircik ewes. Since MM and CC genotypes were known with their positive effect on out of season reproductive activities, Kivircik ewes with these genotypes might suggested to be used in out of season lambing when demanded.