Abstract
In the present study, Myf5 and Myf6 gene expression profiles and their relationship with muscle fiber-type composition and size were evaluated in some skeletal muscles of Angora (n = 6), Hair (n = 6), Honamlı (n = 6), and Kilis (n = 6) weaned male kids. Myf5 and Myf6 gene expression were measurement using real-time PCR. Total RNA amount longissimus-dorsi (LD) and semitendinosus (ST) ST muscles was relatively higher (p < 0.05) in Honamlı kids compared to kids born to other breeds. Kids of Honamlı goats had a more increased (p < 0.05) Myf5 gene expression than other kids’ breeds in LD muscle. Expression of the Myf5 gene in ST muscle was lower in kids of Hair goat than those of Honamlı and Kilis goats (p < 0.05). Myf6 gene expression was lower (p < 0.05) in the LD muscle of Kilis kids than those of other kids. The highest (p < 0.05) Myf6 gene expression was found in the ST muscle of Honamlı and Angora kids. Additionally, significant correlations were observed (p < 0.05) among Myf5 and Myf6 gene expression levels and muscle fiber-type composition at different levels in each breed. Results of the current study indicated that alterations in muscle fiber number, type, and size might be associated with interactive activity of Myf 5 and Myf 6 gene expression during muscle development. Moreover, significantly different breed-specific expressions of Myf5 and Myf6 led to the conclusion that these genes can be used to choose more productive goat breed, especially in fattening.