# GRM1 as a Candidate Gene for Buffalo Fertility: Insights from Genome-Wide Association Studies and Its Role in the FOXO Signaling Pathway

## TL;DR

This study identifies the GRM1 gene as important for buffalo fertility, offering new insights for improving dairy production through genetic breeding.

## Contribution

GRM1 is newly identified as a candidate gene for buffalo fertility through GWAS and its role in key signaling pathways.

## Key findings

- Two significant SNPs were identified in the buffalo genome linked to reproduction traits.
- GRM1 is associated with the FOXO, calcium, and estrogen signaling pathways, which are critical for reproduction.
- The findings support using GRM1 in molecular breeding to enhance buffalo fertility and production efficiency.

## Abstract

Background: Water buffaloes represent a crucial genetic resource for the global dairy industry, yet enhancements in their production performance remain relatively constrained. The advent of advanced sequencing technologies, coupled with genome-wide association studies (GWASs), has significantly boosted the potential for breeding superior-quality water buffalo. Methods: An integrated genomic analysis was performed on sequencing data from 100 water buffaloes, utilizing the high-quality UOA_WB_1 genome assembly as a reference. This study particularly emphasized reproduction-related traits, with a focus on age at first calving (AFC). Results: Our analysis revealed two significant single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Based on these genetic markers, the GRM1 gene was identified as a candidate gene. This gene shows substantial involvement in various reproduction-associated pathways, including the FOXO signaling pathway, calcium signaling pathway, and estrogen signaling pathway. Conclusions: The identification of GRM1 as a candidate gene provides a robust theoretical basis for molecular breeding strategies aimed at enhancing fertility in water buffaloes. These findings offer critical scientific support for optimizing breeding programs, thereby improving overall production efficiency.