Genetic analysis of ND4 and ND4L regions of mitochondrial genome in Khorasan native chickens

Preserving genetic diversity of Iranian native chickens is significant in order to perform breeding programs and improved production. Genetic diversity among close populations can be determined by investigating their phylogenetic relations. Different approaches have been applied to determine the phylogenic relations from which genomic sequencing has been considered the most functional approach. In this project, we aimed to evaluate the phylogeny and genetic nucleotide sequences of ND4, ND4L regions in mitochondrial genome of Khorasan native chickens. Blood samples were collected from randomly 6 Khorasan native chicken populations and DNA were extracted. ND4L, ND4 regions were amplified using specific primers of 913 and 802 bp length, respectively. Sequencing was don according to Sanger method based on automated system. In comparison with other breeds (data extracted from NCBI), phylogeny trees and matrices regarding their genetic diversity with Khorasan native chickens for ND4, ND4L were drawn. Results showed that there is no haplotype difference between the studied samples. Lowest genetic distance was observed between Khorasan native chicken and other Asian chickens i.e. Jiangbian, Lvenwv and Red jungle fowl for the ND4, ND4L genes indicating their close relationship.