Exploring genetic variability and its association with growth traits in Rohilkhandi goats

Goats offer unique social, economic and biological benefits compared to other livestock species and are often referred to as the "poor man's cow". This study aimed to examine the polymorphism of six gene loci, namely IGF1, GH1, GH2, MSTN, IGFBP3 and GDF9, in Rohilkhandi goats using PCR-RFLP and assessed their association with various growth traits. Polymorphisms were detected in IGF1, GH1 and MSTN gene loci. Body weight, as an indicator of growth traits, increased significantly from 2.17 ± 0.04 kg at birth to 28.55 ± 0.32 kg at 48 months of age. Least squares analysis of variance revealed a significant association (p < 0.05) between IGF1 variants and body weights across all recorded time points, from birth to 48 months. Additionally, GH1 genotypes were significantly associated with body weights at 9, 12 and 15 months. MSTN variants also exhibited significant associations (p < 0.05) with body weights across all ages from birth to 48 months. These findings suggest that IGF1 and MSTN genotypes may serve as useful molecular markers for marker-assisted selection aimed at improving growth traits in goats. However, further research is required to more precisely validate their association with growth traits, using a larger sample size, a broader range of growth traits and examining additional genes in Rohilkhandi goats.