Comparative FISH mapping of BMPR1B, BMP15 and GDF9 fecundity genes on cattle, river buffalo, sheep and goat chromosomes

One of the main goal in livestock genomic projects is the preparation of extensive genomic maps that identify loci affecting economically important traits. For this reason, the aim of this study was to compare several physical maps using bovine artificial chromosomes (BAC) clones containing genes related to fecundity genes. Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) was performed on three gene sequences: growth differentiation factor 9 ( GDF9), bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and its type I receptor (BMPR1B). They were studied on cattle (BTA), river buffalo (BBU), sheep (OAR) and goat (CHI) for the first time. GDF9 was assigned to BTA7q22.3, BBU9q24, OAR5q22.3 and CHI7q22.3; BMP15 was assigned to BTAXq31, BBUXq36, OAR/CHIXq24; BMPR1B was assigned to BTA/OAR/CHI6q15 and BBU7q21. All loci were mapped on homologous chromosome and chromosome bands, underling the high degree of chromosome homologies among bovids and extending the cytogenetic maps of these four economically important species.