Investigation of polymorphism of Markhoz goat microsatellite markers

The use of molecular markers, especially microsatellite markers provides very valuable information about the existing genetic structure under study. This information can be used to protect an endangered species or to investigate the location of genes affecting quantitative traits (QTL). The purpose of this study was to emphasized the importance of microsatellite markers for the study of genetic diversity in Markhoz goats and their use in conservation strategies. In this study, blood samples were taken from 240 Markhz goats in Kurdistan province randomly. DNA extraction from whole blood samples was performed by salting out method. Then, the genetic diversity of 30 microsatellite markers was investigated using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Alleles of each individual were identified using silver staining method. Genetic parameters related to the genetic structure of Markhoz goat were calculated using POPGENE software. Except for INRA040 marker, all markers used were well amplified. Among the amplified markers, MCM136 showed low polymorphism but other markers had high polymorphism. ILSTS030 markers with 6 alleles and MCM136 markers with 3 alleles produced the highest and lowest number of alleles, respectively. ILSTS030 marker showed the highest (0.7504) and MCM136 marker showed the lowest (0.0158) expected heterozygosity. Microsatellite markers seem to be a useful and reliable tool for identifying goat breeds and their use can be a solution to protect endangered breeds.