Influence of MSTN Gene Polymorphism on Meat Quality in Soviet Merino Sheep

Introduction. Modern animal husbandry is characterized by the active introduction of molecular genetic technologies aimed at increasing the efficiency of breeding programs and accelerating the development of highly productive livestock populations. Under the conditions of increasing requirements for meat quality, special attention is being paid to studies focused on identifying genetic markers associated with productive and technological characteristics of meat. This issue is of particular importance in Merino sheep breeding, where primary emphasis has traditionally been placed on wool productivity, while meat quality traits still require further improvement. In this regard, the study of genetic factors influencing the consumer properties of lamb meat in Soviet Merino sheep is highly relevant. The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of MSTN gene polymorphism on the meat quality of Soviet Merino sheep.

Materials and Methods. The studies were carried out on Soviet Merino sheep bred at the “Skiba” collective farm in the Rostov region. The objects of the study were ram lambs raised under identical feeding and management conditions. Biological samples were collected from the animals for molecular genetic analysis followed by genomic DNA extraction using standard methods. The MSTN gene polymorphism was determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using specific primers. The obtained amplicons were subjected to restriction analysis using the PCR-RFLP method with restriction endonucleases. DNA fragments were separated by agarose gel electrophoresis followed by visualization under ultraviolet light. Organoleptic evaluation was performed following control slaughter of animals. The longissimus dorsi muscle was used for the study.

Research Results. The obtained results are consistent with current concepts regarding the role of the MSTN gene in the regulation of muscle tissue growth and the formation of meat production in farm animals. The identified advantage of the MSTN_AG genotype in several organoleptic characteristics may be associated with specific features of muscle tissue structure formation and protein metabolism intensity.

Discussion and Conclusion. The obtained data confirm the potential of using the MSTN gene as a molecular genetic marker in breeding programs aimed at improving meat and dual-purpose sheep production.The practical significance of the study lies in the possibility of applying the results in breeding programs focused on improving lamb quality and enhancing the consumer properties of meat products.

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