# Genetic variation and mRNA expression of the ELOVL6 and CRTC2 genes in Kalmyk cattle

## TL;DR

This study explores the genetic variation and expression of ELOVL6 and CRTC2 genes in Kalmyk cattle, linking a specific SNP to growth and meat traits.

## Contribution

The study identifies a novel SNP in the ELOVL6 gene associated with body weight and length in Kalmyk cattle.

## Key findings

- CRTC2 is highly expressed in heart and liver, while ELOVL6 is predominantly expressed in spleen and large intestine.
- A polymorphic SNP (g.16511290A > G) in ELOVL6 is significantly associated with live weight and body oblique length.
- The G allele of the ELOVL6 SNP is dominant and linked to improved growth traits in Kalmyk cattle.

## Abstract

Kalmyk cattle are an important meat breed in Kazakhstan, valued for their strong physique, genetic stability, and adaptability. In this study, we investigated the mRNA expression of ELOVL fatty acid elongase 6 (ELOVL6) and CREB-regulated transcription coactivator 2 (CRTC2) across multiple tissues, and further examined their genetic variations and associations with growth and carcass traits in 200 Kalmyk cattle. Expression analysis showed that CRTC2 was most highly expressed in the heart and liver, whereas ELOVL6 was predominantly expressed in the spleen and large intestine, highlighting their tissue-specific expression patterns. In addition, we identified a polymorphic SNP (g.16511290A > G) in the 3′UTR of ELOVL6, with three genotypes (AA, AG, GG) and the G allele being dominant (0.520). Polymorphism information content (PIC) analysis indicated high genetic diversity at this locus. Importantly, this SNP was significantly associated with live weight and body oblique length (p < 0.05), and individuals carrying heterozygous AG genotype showed higher body weight and length. Collectively, these findings suggest that g.16511290A > G within ELOVL6 may serve as useful molecular markers for body measurements and meat traits, providing valuable resources for marker-assisted selection in beef cattle breeding programs.