# Morphometric traits and identification of GH and IGF-1 gene polymorphisms in Napu buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) from Central Sulawesi, Indonesia

## TL;DR

This study examines body weight and genetic traits in Napu buffaloes from Indonesia, finding no genetic variation in two growth-related genes.

## Contribution

The study identifies monomorphic GH and IGF-1 genes in Napu buffaloes, which limits their use for predicting morphometric traits.

## Key findings

- Napu buffalo body weight and size vary with age and sex.
- GH and IGF-1 genes in Napu buffaloes show no genetic polymorphisms.
- No association exists between GH/IGF-1 genotypes and morphometric traits.

## Abstract

The objectives of this study are to measure the body weight (BW) and morphometric parameters of Napu buffaloes, identify the growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) gene polymorphisms, and associate them with the BW and morphometric parameters of Napu buffaloes.

This study used 39 Napu buffaloes (9 males and 30 females). Morphometric measurements were performed using a measuring tape. The GH and IGF-1 gene diversity analysis was performed using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and direct sequencing techniques.

The results showed that there is diversity in BW and body size of Napu buffaloes due to the influence of age and sex. The results of PCR-RFLP analysis of the GH|AluI gene showed 0% VV, 100% LL, and 0% VL genotypes. While the IGF-1|SnaBI gene shows the genotype AA 0%, BB 100%, and AB 0%. The sequencing results of the GH and IGF-1 genes in Napu buffaloes did not find mutations.

Age and sex in Napu buffaloes may affect BW and body size. The GH and IGF-1 genes in Napu buffaloes are monomorphic, so no association can be made with the morphometric parameters of Napu buffaloes.