# Detection and Analysis of Genes Affecting the Number of Thoracic Vertebrae in Licha Black Pigs

## TL;DR

This study identifies genes that may influence the number of thoracic vertebrae in Licha black pigs, a trait important for pork production.

## Contribution

The study discovers potential candidate genes for regulating thoracic vertebrae number in pigs through selective signal analysis.

## Key findings

- 2265 selection signal regions were identified, containing 527 genes and 1073 QTL.
- Genes like LRP5, SP5, LRP8, DEF6, and SCUBE3 are linked to bone development and vertebrae number.
- These genes are hypothesized to regulate thoracic vertebrae number in Licha black pigs.

## Abstract

The number of thoracic vertebrae (NTV) in pigs is an important economic trait that significantly influences pork production. While the Licha black pig is a well-known Chinese pig breed with multiple thoracic vertebrae, the genetic mechanism is still unknown. Here, we performed a selective signal analysis on the genome of Licha black pigs, comparing individuals with 15 NTV versus those with 16 NTV to better understand functional genes associated with NTV. A total of 2265 selection signal regions were detected across the genome, including 527 genes and 1073 QTL that overlapped with the selection signal regions. Functional enrichment analysis revealed that LRP5 and SP5 genes were involved in biological processes such as bone morphogenesis and Wnt protein binding. Furthermore, three genes, LRP8, DEF6, and SCUBE3, associated with osteoblast differentiation and bone formation, were located within or close to the QTL related to bone development and vertebrae number. These five genes were hypothesized to be potential candidates for regulating the NTV trait in Licha black pigs. Our findings revealed several candidate genes that play crucial roles in NTV regulation and provide a theoretical foundation to understand the genetic mechanism of the NTV trait in pig breeding.