Genome-Wide Association Study of Fiber Diameter in Alpacas

This study conducted a genome-wide association analysis on 960 female Huacaya alpacas to identify genetic markers associated with fiber diameter. Using various methodologies, including linear models and haplotype analysis, the research identified significant SNPs on chromosomes VPA6, VPA9, VPA29, and an unassigned scaffold, as well as other regions. These SNPs were linked to numerous lncRNA and protein-coding genes, with key pathways involving glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis and thyroid hormone synthesis. The findings suggest these genetic markers could be used for marker-assisted selection to improve fiber quality in alpacas. Future research should focus on validating these markers and expanding the sample size to confirm the results.