DNA MARKERS FOR EVALUATING THE ADAPTATION POTENTIAL OF RABBITS AND FUR-BEARING ANIMALS

Abstract

Modern breeding of agricultural animals has transitioned from phenotype-based selection to high-precision genomic prediction based on hundreds of thousands of DNA markers. This has not only accelerated the development of breeds with target traits but also enhanced their adaptability and stress resistance through the design of balanced selection programs. In this context, the present work involved the selection and validation of various DNA markers associated with adaptation potential in rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) and fur-bearing animals (using the sable Martes zibellina as an example). Studies were conducted using PCR and real-time PCR. In the population-genetic study of female sables (n=9, yearlings born in 2023; n=5, two-year-olds born in 2022; n=7, born before 2022), highly polymorphic markers ((ACC)6G, LTR-BERV-K1) were identified, demonstrating high discriminatory power in analyzing differences between animal generations. In the study of feed additive effectiveness in rabbits (n=12, Rodnik cross), reduced expression of metabolic genes g6pd and slc15a1 was observed when using a vitamin-mineral premix during the fattening period. The micronucleus test revealed the potential genome-destabilizing effect of the premix on blood cells, despite the absence of a statistically significant effect on body weight gain. In the behavior genetics study (n=8, rabbits of the Soviet Chinchilla and White Giant breeds), breed and sex differences in the expression of glutamatergic system genes grik3 and gria2 were discovered, opening prospects for selection aimed at reducing aggression in captive animal populations. The proposed approaches create new opportunities for fur farming and rabbit breeding through targeted selection of DNA markers to control genetic variability across generations and the functional activity of key metabolic network components.