Signatures of Admixture and Genetic Uniqueness in the Autochthonous Greek Black Pig Breed Deduced from Gene Polymorphisms Affecting Domestication-Derived Traits

Autochthonous pig breeds are important genetic resources, well adapted to local climatic conditions, environments, and traditional production systems, where they are associated with local and niche markets. The Greek Black Pig breed is the only local pig breed recognized in Greece. In this study, we started a population genetic characterization of this breed by analyzing a few gene markers associated with morphological and production traits and that usually differentiate wild boars from domestic breeds. The obtained results showed that, in the past, this breed experienced genetic admixture from two sources, wild boars and cosmopolitan breeds. On the one hand, this situation might raise some concerns for the genetic integrity of this animal genetic resource. On the other hand, this might contribute to within-population genetic variability reducing the problem of inbreeding of the small breed population. In this breed, we also identified a novel allele in the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) gene, resulting in a new hypothesis on the function of the encoded protein in regulating the cascade signals and leading to the production of different pigmentation. This result showed that local untapped breeds can be the reservoir of interesting genetic variants useful to better understanding underlying basic biological functions in mammals

Meat Quality in Katerini and Podolian Young Bulls Raised on Pasture: A Comparison between Organic Production Systems in Greek and Italian Environments

Simple Summary Katerini cattle is an autochthonous Greek breed considered at high risk of extinction, given the uncontrolled introduction of foreign breeds into local herds and the lack of a national program aiming at monitoring cross-breeding in local populations. As a consequence, Greece has committed to international treaties to create the necessary infrastructure and to prepare a national strategy for the development of actions able to protect indigenous genetic resources and agricultural biodiversity and to participate in cooperation networks, both at a national and global level. This study provides information, which may contribute to the rescue and valorization of the autochthonous Greek Katerini breed through the protection and preservation of biodiversity, as well as an increase in the productivity of farmed animals.Abstract Local and typical agri-food products (TAP) are receiving increasing interest from consumers, since they are perceived as genuine, healthy and tasty because they are produced under environmentally friendly farming systems. This has aroused a renewed interest among breeders from the inner regions of Italy and Greece toward autochthonous animal populations, such as Greek Katerini and Italian Podolian cattle. Twenty animals were used, divided into two homogeneous groups of ten subjects per each genotype. Animals were fed only on natural pasture and were slaughtered at 18 months of age. Meat from the Katerini young bulls showed a lower a* value, higher moisture and was leaner, and its fat was richer in n-3 fatty acids and had a better n-6/n-3 ratio. Meat from Podolian young bulls was more tender and showed a higher redness value and a significantly greater MUFA concentration. This preliminary study provides a contribution to the local actors and relevant authorities to develop a conservation program for the endangered Katerini breed based on the nutritional and sensorial characterization of its products

Dietary Supplementation with Oregano and Linseed in Autochthonous “Facciuta Lucana” Goats: Effects on Meat Quality Traits in Suckling Kids

Extruded linseed (Linum usitatissimum) in ruminant diets has been investigated as a strategy to improve the nutritional value and healthiness of meat fat; however, increased polyunsaturated fatty acids may limit the shelf-life of meat. Oregano (Origanum vulgare) has a documented antioxidant activity. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects of dietary supplementation with extruded linseed and oregano on goat milk quality and whether the characteristics of goat milk affect the physical and chemical features, fatty acid profile, meat lipid oxidation, and sensory properties of meat from suckling kids. Thirty-six male kids were weaned and divided into three homogeneous groups (n = 12); each group was either fed a control diet (C), or a diet containing 3% extruded linseed with or without the addition of 0.6% oregano (“L + O” and “L”, respectively). The diets containing linseed lowered (p < 0.05) the saturated fatty acid content in meat, and increased (p < 0.05) monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid. Oregano addition to the linseed diet proved to be effective in preserving meat shelf-life, as shown by a significant (p < 0.01) reduction in the malondialdehyde concentration after 10 days of storage, and improved meat succulence, tenderness, juiciness, and overall acceptance