Characterization of Porcine Matrix Metalloproteinase 23 (pMMP-23) Gene and Its Association with Litter Size Traits

The matrix metalloproteinase 23 (MMP-23), which might play a role in ovulation in mammals, was one of the promising candidate genes for litter size traits in pigs. In the present research, partial sequence of porcine MMP-23 (pMMP-23) gene, including exons 2–8 (GenBank: EU360790), was obtained. Real-time PCR analysis revealed that pMMP-23 gene was highly expressed in ovary. PCR-Sau3A I-RFLP and PCR-Acc II-RFLP assay were established to detect a C/T mutation in exon 3 (EU360790: g. 269C>T) and an A/G mutation in exon 4 (EU360790: g. 505A>G), respectively. Association study for these two SNPs with litter size was assessed in three independent populations (Minzhu, Landrace I and Landrace II). Statistical analysis demonstrated that for second and subsequent litters, TT sows produced more TNB than CC pigs in Landrace breed (PT locus, and the additive effect was significant (P