Hongbo Liang , Jia  Xuan

Institute of Life Science, Jiyang College of Zhejiang A&F University, Zhuji, 311800, Zhejiang, China
Author    Correspondence author
Animal Molecular Breeding, 2024, Vol. 14, No. 5   
Received: 21 Jul., 2024    Accepted: 30 Aug., 2024    Published: 12 Sep., 2024

This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) mapping is a powerful tool for identifying genetic regions associated with economically important traits in poultry, such as egg production in layer hens. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of recent advancements in QTL mapping for egg production traits, including egg number, egg weight, and eggshell quality. Through the integration of high-density SNP genotyping, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and functional genomics, key QTLs influencing these traits have been identified, offering valuable insights into the genetic architecture underlying egg production. This study highlights the potential of marker-assisted selection (MAS) and genomic selection to accelerate genetic improvement in layer hens, allowing for more precise and efficient breeding strategies. Furthermore, the integration of QTL mapping with functional genomics holds promise for uncovering the molecular mechanisms driving complex traits, such as environmental adaptability and disease resistance. Future research directions focus on refining QTL mapping through advanced sequencing technologies and expanding its application to non-traditional traits, aiming to meet the challenges of climate change and sustainable poultry production.

QTL mapping; Egg production; Layer hens; Marker-assisted selection; Genomic selection