A new genetic variation in the oxytocin receptor gene is linked to milk fat composition in Italian Mediterranean river buffalo

Seven single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified in the oxytocin receptor gene of ten Mediterranean river buffalo samples.

• The g.129C > T SNP in exon 3 results in an amino acid change from arginine to cysteine at position 353.
• The T allele frequency was found to be 0.257.
• A significant association exists between the OXTR CC genotype and higher levels of odd branched-chain fatty acids in milk.
• The OXTR CC genotype is also associated with increased levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, specifically n-3 and n-6.
• Animals with the OXTR CC genotype showed higher stearic acid levels and lower palmitic acid levels in their milk.

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