A Dde I PCR-RFLP detecting a novel missense mutation of the POU1F1 gene showed no effects on growth traits in cattle

In this study, a novel missense (NM_174579:c.1201C>T) mutation in exon 6 at the bovine POU1F1 locus is reported, which results in p.S284F, namely, Ser (TCT) > Phe (TTT) at position 284 of the mature protein. A DdeI PCR-RFLP was used to determine the genotypes. The polymorphism was studied in eight Chinese cattle breeds (Nanyang, n = 251; Qinchuan, 149; Jiaxian Red, 144; Chinese Holstein, 61; Luxi, 57; Angus, 49; Jinnan, 60; Guyuan, 192). The frequencies of the POU1F1 T allele in the analyzed populations ranged from 0.010 to 0.053. The relationships between the I polymorphism and growth traits and body sizes were analyzed by adjusted linear model in 251 Nanyang cattle. Fixed effects of marker genotype, birth year, season of birth (spring vs. fall), age of dam, sire, farm and sex, and random effects of an animal were included. Statistical evaluation revealed no significant relationships between this polymorphism and birth weight, body weight and average daily gain for different growth periods (6-month old, 12-month old, 18-month old and 24-month old) body height, body length, heart girth and height at the hip cross for different growth periods (P > 0.05).