Genetic variants in the serum amyloid A2 (SAA2) gene as a potential marker for milk production traits in Chinese Holstein cows

Background: This study was conducted to detect potential polymorphisms of the serum amyloid A2 (SAA2) gene and explore their relationships with milk production traits in Chinese Holstein cows. Objectives: This study used: sequencing technology conducted in 532 Chinese Holstein cows. Methods: Three single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified within intron 1, named g.14061A>G, g.14072G>C and g.14819C>T. Eight estimated haplotypes were identified, of which three major haplotypes had a frequency of Hap3 (-ACC-), Hap5 (-GCC-) and Hap2 (-AGT-), with 17.9%, 12.30% and 8.10%, respectively. Results: The association analysis of single markers (g.14061A>G and g.14819C>T) and combined genotypes (Hap1/5) revealed prominent effects on milk production traits in Chinese Holstein cows (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Our results suggest that the SAA2 gene is associated with economic traits in Chinese Holstein cows and may be used as candidate gene for marker-assisted selection and management in breeding programs.