Differential Expression Analysis of Meat Tenderness Governing Genes in Different Skeletal Muscles of Bovine.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to compare twelve different skeletal muscles of bovine (n=15) with each other in terms of tenderness and meat quality related gene expressions. Tenderness values evaluated by shear force and ANK1, CAPN1, CAST, HSPB1, HSPA1A gene expressions analyzed by using qPCR.

RESULTS: ANK1 gene showed significant differences between tender and tough muscles (P < 0.001) and was found to be more closely related to meat quality than CAPN1. No difference was found for CAST, HSPB1 and HSPA1A gene expressions between different parts of skeletal muscles (P > 0.05). The results also showed that the most convenient skeletal muscle for the meat quality studies is m. psoas major. Furthermore, comparative use of m. longissimus thoracis and m. extensor digitorum muscles may give the most accurate results than using other muscle groups in comparative studies between tender and tough muscles.

CONCLUSION: ANK1 gene is a preferable biomarker for the determination of meat quality and CAPN1 needs further studies. However, CAST, HSPB1 and HSPA1A genes may not be suitable biomarkers for the determination of meat quality based on this study. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.