Genomic Association Analysis of Growth and Backfat Traits in Large White Pigs

The pig industry is significantly influenced by complex traits such as growth rate and fat deposition, which have substantial implications for economic returns. Over the years, remarkable genetic advancements have been achieved through intense artificial selection to enhance these traits in pigs. In this study, we aimed to investigate the genetic factors that contribute to growth efficiency and lean meat percentages in Large White pigs. Specifically, we focused on analyzing two key traits: age at 100 kg live weight (AGE100) and backfat thickness at 100 kg (BF100), in three distinct Large White pig populations—500 Canadian, 295 Danish, and 1500 American Large White pigs. By employing population genomic techniques, we observed significant population stratification among these pig populations. Utilizing imputed whole-genome sequencing data, we conducted single population genome-wide association studies (GWAS) as well as a combined meta-analysis across the three populations to identify genetic markers associated with the aforementioned traits. Our analyses highlighted several candidate genes, such as CNTN1—which has been linked to weight loss in mice and is potentially influential for AGE100—and MC4R, which is associated with obesity and appetite and may impact both traits. Additionally, we identified other genes—namely, PDZRN4, LIPM, and ANKRD22—which play a partial role in fat growth. Our findings provide valuable insights into the genetic basis of these important traits in Large White pigs, which may inform breeding strategies for improved production efficiency and meat quality.