Seleção e melhoramento genómico de características produtivas do Porco Alentejano

Presently, the identification of genetic markers in farm animals, species with complex genomes, is greatly enhanced by the substantial volumes of sequence data that can be generated with high-throughput sequencing. In the context of local breeds of domestic animals, technologies like genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) offer the possibility of simultaneously identify and genotype thousands of SNPs across populations comprising hundreds of individuals. In this project, we will evaluate the effect of thousands of SNPs, identified with GBS; on phenotypic traits of interest for the Alentejano pig breed, like porcine growth, sow productivity, carcass traits and meat quality, in order to identify the genetic markers involved in the genetic regulation of those traits. We will study and characterize the genetic variation present in the genomes of 3,000 pigs. The identification and validation of molecular markers linked with the studied phenotypes will be available to be used in the genetic breeding program of the Alentejano pig breed, where the genetic marker information will be incorporated, along with the already available phenotypic and pedigree records. It will allow an early identification of pigs carrying the most desirable genotypes associated with better performances, which will benefit the producers.

Additionally, we will develop a traceability system, based on the identification of breed-specific SNPs, which will be a powerful tool for the molecular traceability of the Alentejano based products to their breed of origin, thereby creating a much needed mechanism to protect producers from frauds and ensure food safety to consumers.