Polymorphism of the FSHR and INHBA genes in dogs of various breeds

As the amount of data on genomic variations increases, tools capable of assessing the functional impact of individual nucleotide sequences are becoming more relevant. There are several prediction servers available to interpret the effects of variants in the human genome, but few have been developed for other species, and none have been specifically designed for species of interest to veterinary medicine, such as dogs. [1] Mammalian glycopeptide hormone receptors are key regulators of reproductive development, and their homologues are widespread in the animal kingdom.[2]. The interest of our research group is aimed at finding gene variations promising for further research of associations in the field of dog reproduction. In this regard, a group of genes has been selected that potentially affect the sperm quality of males. Based on the GeneCards® human gene database, the following genes were selected: the INHBA (Inhibin subunit Beta A) gene, associated with the activation and inhibition of follicle-stimulating hormone by the pituitary gland, a protein encoded by this gene plays an important role in the development of eyes, teeth, and testicles [11], as well as the FSHR (follicle stimulating hormone receptor) gene, The protein encoded by this gene belongs to the G protein-coupled receptor family 1. It is a receptor for follicle-stimulating hormone and is involved in the development of the sex glands [11]. Mutations in this gene cause type 1 ovarian dysgenesis, as well as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in humans [11]. We hypothesized that the INHBA and FSHR genes may affect the quality of ejaculate in males. Studies in the field of INHBA and FSHR gene polymorphisms, which were included in this study, were previously conducted on sheep [3] and bulls [4].

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