Polymorphic Variants of G1 and B4 from GDF9 and BMP15 Genes of Dalagh Sheep

Recently, mutations with major influence on ovulation rate and litter size were identified in TGFβ superfamily ligands and receptors. This study was conducted to identify polymorphisms in GDF9 and BMP15 genes in Dalagh sheep breed. One hundred mature ewes from two flocks in Golestan province were genotyped for the GDF9 (G1) and BMP15 (B4) variants. Two fragments of 462bp and 153bp of GDF9 and BMP15 genes were amplified by PCR-RFLP method. PCR product was digested using HhaI and DdeI endonuclease restriction enzymes. The results of the digested PCR products, did not confirm mutation at position B4 but Polymorphism was observed at G1position. The heterozygote genotype frequency in the population was estimated at 15%.