Whole-Genome Resequencing-Based Selection-Signal and Association Analyses Prioritize Candidate Genes and Haplotypes for PRRS Resistance-Related Traits in Pigs

Abstract

Simple Summary Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome is a serious infectious disease that causes reproductive problems, breathing illness, and major economic losses in pig production. Vaccines and farm management help control the disease, but they do not always provide enough protection because the virus changes easily. This study aimed to find inherited genetic features that may help identify pigs with better natural resistance to this disease. Pigs were first screened after vaccination and then after exposure to the virus, and animals with clearly different disease-response patterns were selected for detailed genetic analysis. By comparing genetic differences between resistant and susceptible pigs and combining these results with public data showing how genes behave during infection, this study identified several candidate genes and genetic regions related to disease response. A region on chromosome 8, especially around genes named NFXL1 and NIPAL1, was highlighted, and a specific genetic pattern in this region was more common in resistant pigs. These findings provide useful clues for future testing and may support breeding programs aimed at improving disease resistance in pigs.