ARS | Publication request: Identification of potential genetic markers for improved growth rate in channel catfish

Submitted to: Proceedings of International Congress on Biology of Fishes
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: April 2, 2012
Publication Date: N/A

Technical Abstract: Identification of genetic polymorphism associated with muscle growth would improve selection efficiency of channel catfish broodstock. Because faster growth is typically associated with increased food intake, factors involved in food intake regulation may serve as potential gene markers for selection of superior fish. We evaluated genes encoding two anorectic factors, cocaine and amphetamine regulated transcript (CART) and cholecystokinins (CCKs), as potential marker candidates. The CART mRNA amount changes in response to food intake and is lower in fish selected for faster growth. The CCK mRNA amount increases after refeeding in fasted fish in a transcript-specific manner. Further, we evaluated a factor that affects muscle nutrient metabolism, uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2), for its potential as a genetic marker. The UCP2 mRNA amount increases in fasted fish, and refeeding decreases the amount in a transcript-specific manner. Effects of selection for faster growth on CCK and UCP2 mRNA expression are currently being investigated.