Mapping the links between genes and meat quality
The EU-funded PORDICTOR project focused on the genetic aspect of meat quality and set out to define specific genetic predictors linked to meat quality. The overall aim would be to select specific genetic expression profiles during prenatal development. This type of examination aims to link phenotypic traits to genotypic variations in various breeds. Project partner, FBN-Dummerstorf, isolated a total of twelve genetic loci from the total 52 that were originally selected. In total, ten genetic markers were identified all of which are associated at varied degrees to pork quality traits across populations. FBN-Dummerstorf researchers provided further insight into these markers and further selected a number of these as candidates for further research. One of the most promising genes for further explorations was ELKS, associated with colour and lean weight across populations. MYOP was another of the 'shortlisted' genes, mainly associated with pH balance and loin depth/weight. Finally, CA3, linked to conductivity and intramuscular fat, was also further selected. A number of other genes, including PDGFRA, HGMA2 and ANK1, did not yield the expected results across populations. Overall, continuing this line of research is expected to create solid links between genetic characteristics and meat quality traits, thus enabling researchers to make further decisions regarding population breeding. As such, the implications of PORDICTOR in the European food industry in the longterm could be significant, considering the impact of such research on farming across Europe.