EFFECT OF AGE ON MORPHOMETRIC TRAITS AND EXPRESSION OF IGF-1 AND IGF-2 IN BALAMI SHEEP BREED

Abstract

Balami sheep are the largest native breed in Nigeria, primarily found in the semi-arid north but also used as a stall-fed breed throughout the country. The study explores the genetic variations of Balami, focusing on the Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 and 2 (IGF-1and IGF-2) genes, which plays a crucial role in growth and development. IGF-1 levels are linked to various growth traits in sheep, such as muscle growth, body weight, and development. The study analyzed the expression patterns of IGFs and its relationship with growth traits in Balami sheep, using molecular genetic techniques. Forty-five samples were collected from Balami sheep in Maiduguri, Nigeria, and analyzed using various molecular biology techniques. Morphometric traits measured include body weight, height at withers, body length, and heart girth. Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) was extracted and converted to cDNA for gene expression and analysis using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). The study found significant (P<0.05) effects of age on body weight and other measurements. Older sheep generally had higher body weights and measurements. The expression levels of IGF-1 and IGF-2 varied with age. It showed significant (P<0.05) fluctuations that corresponded to growth phases. The knowledge of IGF-1 gene expression can be valuable for selecting fast-growing animals and enhancing production traits through marker assisted selection.