Evolutionary signatures and functional genomics of stature associated loci in domestic cattle
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Authors
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Asad Khan
Author
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Ishmeet Kumar
Author
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Jayesh Vyas
Author
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Kachave Mukund Ramesh
Author
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Rajesh Kumar Bochlya
Author
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Sonika Ahlawat
Author
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Dr. Raja K N
Principal Scientist, NBAGR, GT Road, Karnal,Haryana-132001
Author
Keywords:
Bovine stature, Genome-wide association studies (GWAS), Indigenous cattle, PLAG1 gene, Polygenic traitsAbstract
This review synthesizes current knowledge on the genetic architecture underlying bovine stature, with a particular focus on major quantitative trait loci (QTL) and candidate genes identified through genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and fine-mapping efforts. Among these, the pleiomorphic adenoma gene 1 (PLAG1) locus on bovine chromosome 14 (BTA14) consistently emerges as a principal determinant of stature across diverse breeds, influencing growth through regulatory effects on insulin-like growth factor pathways. Other significant loci, including MEF2C, HMGA2, and genes within growth hormone signaling pathways, also contribute to body size variation. Evolutionary perspectives reveal the impact of domestication, historical stature reduction and recovery, and the introgression of advantageous alleles between Bos taurus and Bos indicus. Breed-specific adaptations, particularly in indigenous cattle, highlight genetic diversity linked to environmental resilience, disease resistance, and morphological variation. Despite major advances, challenges remain in addressing missing heritability, limited high-resolution data for local breeds, and the functional validation of noncoding variants. Future directions emphasize the integration of whole-genome sequencing, multi-omics approaches, and targeted functional genomics to elucidate causal mechanisms. Understanding the complex genomic basis of stature not only enhances selection strategies in commercial cattle but also underscores the importance of conserving genetic resources in indigenous breeds, ensuring sustainable improvement and adaptability in the face of changing production and environmental demands.
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