Genetic variation in Growth Hormone Gene among Bactrian and Dromedary Camels in Iran: Implications for conservation and productivity

Camels are highly resistant to drought and cold weather and can produce milk and meat under the harshest environmental conditions. However, the camel population in Iran has been decreasing over the past decades, making genetic studies crucial for the conservation and productivity of this species. This study investigates the growth hormone (GH) gene, which influences growth, milk production, and reproduction. Blood samples were collected from ۲۵ Bactrian camels in Ardebil province and ۵۰ dromedary camels from Yazd province (n=۱۵), Toroud Camel Research Station (n=۲۰), and Semnan province (n=۱۵). DNA was extracted and analyzed using sequencing and alignment methods, revealing seven mutations in the GH gene. Two of these mutations were substitutions that altered the amino acid sequence of the growth hormone protein. Genetic distance analysis showed the greatest genetic distance between Bactrian and one-humped camels. Among dromedary camels, those from Yazd and Semnan provinces displayed the largest genetic distance, while camels from the Toroud Camel Research Station were intermediate between the two populations. This genetic differentiation highlights the potential for regional adaptation and the necessity of targeted conservation strategies. The study underscores the importance of genetic diversity in breeding programs aimed at enhancing the productivity and resilience of camel populations. These findings provide a foundation for further research on the genetic mechanisms underlying important traits in camels and emphasize the need for comprehensive genetic monitoring to ensure the sustainability of camel populations in Iran.

کلیدواژه ها:

Camel genetics ، Growth hormone gene ، Bactrian and dromedary camels ، Conservation ، Camel breeding program