A note on biallelic expression of the IGF2 gene in the liver and brain of adult pigs

Abstract

The IGF2 gene is imprinted in most mammalian tissues. Considering the potential large impact of the IGF2 gene on breeding industry, further studies on IGF2 expression in various tissues and at different stages of animal's development are required. Samples of blood, muscle, kidney, liver and brain were taken from 5.5-month-old pigs. Animals heterozygous for SWC9 marker were selected. RNA was isolated from the muscle, kidney, liver and brain and RT-PCR was performed. The results of the study showed that there is a relaxation of imprinting of the IGF2 gene in the liver and brain of adult pigs.