Polymorphism of PRLR and LHβ genes by SSCP marker and their association with litter size in Boer goats

In the study, the polymerization effect of genotypes and genotype combinations of prolactin receptor (PRLR) and luteinizing hormone beta (LHβ) gene was analyzed in Boer goats by SSCP marker, DNA sequencing and pedigrees. The relationships of genotypes and genotype combinations with litter size were compared in Boer goats. The result indicated that there were genetic polymorphisms in PRLR and LHβ genes. There were 4 positive genotypes (HH, CC, PQ and LL) and 4 negative genotypes (GG, DD, PP and MM) effects on litter size, respectively in Boer goats. Compared with the other genotype combinations, the polymerization effect of HHCCPQLL was markedly improved (P < 0.05). The polymerization effect value of CC genotype was higher than that of CD genotype by 6.55%, and HH genotype was higher than that of GH genotype by 9.47%, and HH genotype was higher than that of GG genotype by 10.55%, and PQ genotype was higher than that of PP genotype by 7.73%–11.68%, and PQ genotype was higher than that of QQ genotype by 14.06%, and LL genotype was higher than that of LM genotype by 2.76%. This result can be used to guide goat breeding in polyembryony trait.