Genetic Variability of Loci Affecting Meat Quality and Production in Nero Siciliano Pig Breed

Nero Siciliano (NS) is an autochthonous pig breed reared in northeastern Sicily; despite its high-quality meat products, NS is currently endangered. This study aimed to evaluate the genetic variability at nine loci within candidate genes for meat traits-Melanocortin 4 Receptor (<i>MC4R</i>), Ryanodine Receptor 1 (<i>RYR1</i>), Class 3 Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase (<i>PIK3C3</i>) and Leptin (<i>LEP</i>)-to provide useful information for preservation and exploitation of the NS pig breed. Distribution of the genetic variants was assessed in a representative sample of 87 pigs (18 boars and 69 sows) collected in nine farms located in the original breeding area. Genotypes have been determined using PCR-RFLP and Sanger sequencing. Alleles linked to different growth rates and back fat deposition showed high frequencies (<i>MC4R</i> c.175C-0.93; <i>LEP</i> g.3469T-0.91) in the whole sample. Deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and different allele distribution in boars and sows were observed. The <i>RYR1</i> g.1843T allele, associated with Malignant Hyperthermia and Pale Soft Exudative meat defect, was reported in seven heterozygote pigs (q = 0.04) with one farm exhibiting a frequency of 0.29. Our results suggest the need for continuous monitoring of the genetic variants in NS both to maintain high meat quality and eradicate the <i>RYR1</i> g.1843T allele.