Prolactin receptor gene as a genetic marker for increased litter size in animals

Abstract

Disclosed herein are genetic markers for animal litter size, methods for identifying such markers, and methods of screening animals to determine those more likely to produce larger litters and preferably selecting those animals for future breeding purposes. The markers are based upon the presence or absence of certain polymorphisms in the prolactin receptor gene.

1 . An allele which is indicative of increased litter size in animals, said allele characterized by the following: 
 a) is characterized by a polymorphism in the prolactin receptor;    b) is associated with an increase in litter size when present in a female of said animal.    
     
     
         2 . The allele of  claim 1  wherein said polymorphism is a restriction site selected from the group consisting of an AluI site, an HinFI site, an MseI site and an HpyCH4IV site.  
     
     
         3 . The allele of  claim 2  wherein said polymorphism is located in the 3′ translated and nontranslated region of the prolactin receptor gene.  
     
     
         4 . The allele of  claim 3  wherein said polymorphism is located in the region between exons 8 and 9 region of the prolactin receptor gene.