Prediction of the Effects of Non-synonymous SNPs of the FSHB Gene on Its Protein Structure and Function in Lori-Bakhtiari Goat

Abstract

Background: The Bakhtiari goat is one of the native and important breeds of Iran, especially raised in the western and southwestern regions of the country. Objectives: Studies have shown that this breed possesses high genetic diversity, which can aid in improving breeding programs. Methods: Thirty goats were selected, and blood samples were collected. After DNA extraction and quality assessment, the target fragment was amplified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique and sent to Pishgam Company for sequencing. Results: The results revealed two non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) mutations, including the substitution of arginine (Arg) with lysine (Lys) at position 13, and aspartic acid (Asp) with glutamine (Gln) at position 9. The SNP analysis was conducted using the SIFT, PROVEAN, and I-Mutant software, which indicated that the identified SNPs could affect the structure and function of the follicle-stimulating hormone beta subunit (FSHB) protein. In particular, the SIFT software scoring showed that the SNPs were identified as deleterious and could negatively impact the stability and function of the protein. Furthermore, gene network mapping results using STRING software demonstrated strong interactions of FSHB with other genes related to hormonal regulation and reproduction. The findings of this study potentially indicate that the identified SNPs in the FSHB gene can influence reproductive processes and fertility in goats. There is a need for further research to better understand the effects of these SNPs on the structure and function of the FSHB protein in goats. Conclusions: These findings can contribute to improving breeding programs and managing genetic diversity in goats and serve as a basis for future studies in this field.