Molecular characterization of BMP15 and GDH9 fertility gene polymorphisms in assaf sheep breed raised in Tunceli

Sheep (Ovis aries) are widely used farm animals around the world. They provide resources for products that facilitate the sustainability of vital activities such as milk, meat and wool. Assaf sheep emerged as a breed in Palestine by crossbreeding Awassi and East Frisian sheep. The aim of this study was to investigate the polymorphism of BMP15 (FecXG and FecXI-bone morphogenetic protein 15) and GDF9 (G1 and G4-growth differentiation factor 9) genes in Assaf breed and the relationship between genotypes and number of offspring. Blood samples were taken from a total of 100 sheep. Genomic DNA was obtained from whole blood. PCR-RFLP technique was used to determine the polymorphisms of the investigated genes. In this study, genotypes of fertility genes GDF9 and BMP15 were investigated in Assaf sheep distributed in Tunceli. On the other hand, BB-AA genotypes determined in BMP15 and GDF9 E1 were found to be associated with fertility compared to other genotypes and were found to be statistically significant (P<0.05). However, no statistically significant association was found with fertility in GDF9 E2.The results show that genetic differences determined in BMP15 and GDF9 in Assaf sheep raised in the Tunceli region may be related to fertility in sheep. These differences determined in BMP15 and GDF9 genes in sheep breeding studies have the potential for genetic improvements in local sheep breeds.