Mitochondrial DNA Diversity of Japanese Black Cattle

Abstract

In our previous study, two major mtDNA types were observed in Japanese Black cattle; one has been detected exclusively in Japanese samples (Japanese Black type), whereas the second is comprised of samples that show sequences and patterns of variability similar to those found in European samples (European type). This article describes mitochondrial DNA displacement loop polymorphisms and their frequencies in three representative Japanese Black cattle populations. PCR-SSCP method was applied to analyze the mtDNA polymorphisms. Differences of the genetic frequencies between populations were observed in European type mitochondrial DNA. The results suggested that the grading with European breeds in Meiji era retains genetic influence on modern Japanese Black cattle.