Identification of the putative regulatory regions and candidate genes associated with backfat thickness and intramuscular fat content traits in Xiang pigs

Backfat thickness and intramuscular fat content reflect fat deposition and meat quality in pigs. Numerous genetic variations contribute to differences in BFT and IMF for different pig breeds. However, limited information is available on the genetic variants associated with IMF deposition in Xiang pigs. To identify the putative regulatory regions and candidate genes associated with BFT and IMF traits in Xiang pigs, we integrated the whole genomic DNA genotyping and RNA-sequencing data in Longissimus thoracis muscle from F2 individuals of Large white and Xiang pig cross and performed the expression quantitative trait loci analyses.