Genomic insights into key genes and QTLs involved in cattle reproduction

•“Inter-calving intervals reflect cattle reproductive capacity, influencing the sustainability of livestock production through impacts on lactation dynamics.”•“Identification of numerous Quantitative Trait Loci (QTLs) associated with reproductive phenotypes in dairy cattle offers valuable insights for enhancing breeding strategies and genetic selection.”•“Studying QTLs linked to reproductive traits not only informs livestock breeding practices but also contributes to advancements in biotechnology and broader fields like human health and conservation.” From an economic standpoint, reproductive characteristics are fundamental for sustainable production, particularly for monotocous livestock like cattle. A longer inter-calving interval is indicative of low reproductive capacity. This issue changes the dynamics of current and future lactations since it necessitates more inseminations, veterinary care, and hormone interventions. Various reproductive phenotypes, including ovulation, mating, fertility, pregnancy, embryonic growth, and calving-related traits, are observed in dairy cattle, and these traits have been associated with several QTLs. Calving ease, age at puberty, scrotal circumference, and inseminations per conception have been associated with 4437, 10623, 10498, and 2476 Quantitative Trait Loci (QTLs), respectively. This data offers valuable insights into enhancing and comprehending reproductive traits in livestock breeding. Studying QTLs associated with reproductive traits has far-reaching implications across various fields, from agriculture and animal husbandry to human health, evolutionary biology, and conservation. It provides the foundation for informed breeding practices, advances in biotechnology, and a deeper understanding of the genetic underpinnings of reproduction.