Genetic Diversity, Innovative Utilization and Microbiome Profile of Local Pig Breeds

Dear Colleagues,

In recent years, there has been growing awareness of the importance of local breeds in terms of adaptive traits, as a reservoir of valuable genetic variation with the potential for more sustainable, added-value-oriented pork production, and because of their historical and cultural value. In the past, the development of livestock production was mainly based on the formation of local breeds that were well adapted to specific conditions and rearing practices. However, in the second half of the twentieth century, the lower economic performance of these breeds when raised under intensive production conditions resulted in a significant reduction of local pig breed populations, which were replaced by modern, highly productive pig breeds adapted to farm conditions and constraints.

The higher economic value of typical productions compared to conventional commercial products and the growing consumer preference toward quality food could support livestock biodiversity conservation plans.

Molecular DNA markers such as SNPs, CNVs, and Retrotrasposones are used to investigate the genetic basis of traits, supplying support to phenotypic evaluation and genealogical data analysis.

Furthermore, in recent times, there has been a growing interest in the study of gut microbiota, a complex and dynamic community of microbial species, which collectively modulate the health status and physiology of a variety of vertebrates, including humans and pigs. The taxonomic structure of pig microbiomes is considered pivotal for commercial breeding. Additionally, the influence of microbial taxa on host fitness and disease risk can provide relevant information to promote animal health and improve feed efficiency in the swine industry.

This Special Issue will focus on recent research or reviews that investigate novel approaches and/or technologies used to identify relevant new phenotypes and implement all aspects of pig genetics and genomics. We welcome those submissions with a focus on new phenotypes, genomic selection, breeding programs, QTLs, breeds conservation, and gut microbiome characterization. 

Dr. Enrico D’ Alessandro
Dr. Cai Chen
Guest Editors

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