Summary
This study investigated genetic markers in lipogenic genes of northern Australian tropically adapted crossbred beef cattle to identify associations with healthful lipid traits, particularly omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω3 LC-PUFA). Steers from Brahman, Charbray, and Droughtmaster crosses were fed Rhodes grass hay supplemented with desmanthus and/or lucerne for 140 days, with loin eye muscle subsequently analysed for fatty acid composition and SNP genotypes. The findings demonstrate that specific SNP genotypes in FABP4, SCD, and FASN genes can be used as marker-assisted selection tools to improve intramuscular fat deposition and ω3 LC-PUFA content, offering a sustainable pathway for enhancing meat eating quality in tropical beef production systems.
Regional applicability
The SNP markers identified may have limited direct applicability to UK beef systems, which operate under different climatic and pasture-based conditions than northern Australian tropical environments. However, the marker-assisted selection approach and insights into lipogenic gene function could inform breeding programmes in UK temperate beef cattle, potentially improving intramuscular fat quality, though validation in UK genetic backgrounds and feed systems would be required.
Key measures
Intramuscular fat (IMF), fat melting point (FMP), fatty acid composition by type, SNP genotypes at FABP4 g.44677239C>G, SCD g.21266629G>T, and FASN loci
Outcomes reported
The study identified single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in FABP4, SCD, and FASN genes associated with intramuscular fatty acid composition in crossbred beef cattle. Specific genotypes were found to correlate with higher proportions of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in the loin eye muscle.
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