Polymorphism of TLR3 Gene in Nigerian Indigenous and Exotic Turkeys

This study investigated the genetic polymorphisms of the Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) gene in Nigerian indigenous and exotic turkeys, with the aim of identifying single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that may contribute to disease resistance. A total of 150 turkeys (100 exotic and 50 indigenous) were sampled. DNA was extracted, and a 750 bp fragment of the TLR3 gene was amplified and sequenced. Analysis revealed three key SNPs—g.234A>G, g.417C>T, and g.689G>A—with significant differences in genotype and allele frequencies between the two populations. Genetic diversity was found to be higher in exotic turkeys based on heterozygosity and polymorphic information content values. Two SNPs (g.234A>G and g.689G>A) were predicted to be potentially damaging to the TLR3 protein structure. Indigenous turkeys displayed a distinct phylogenetic clustering, suggesting unique genetic lineage and possible natural selection for immune traits. These findings underscore the importance of genetic markers in breeding programs aimed at enhancing disease resistance in poultry.