Heterozygosity analysis of Bionda Piemontese and Bianca di Saluzzo chicken breeds by microsatellites markers : a preliminary study

Conservation of genetic variability is one of the main goals in animal production science and the analysis of breeds genetic asset can supply objective basis for effective conservation programs and selection strategies. Bionda Piemontese (PIB) and Bianca di Saluzzo (SAB) chicken breeds originated in Piemonte region. Breeds conservation programmes started in 1999 in Verzuolo (CN) aiming to preserve the breeds and to improve their diffusion being particularly adapted to free range rearing systems thanks to their resistance. PIB and SAB are both suggested for traditional recipes and production (e.g. Morozzo capon) and are Slow Food presidia. A total of 76 birds were analysed: PIB (n=36), SAB (n=40). Genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples. All birds were genotyped at eight microsatellite loci. Each marker was subjected to PCR and the products were separated by electrophoresis in 4.2% denaturing polyacrylamide gels on ABI Prism 377 DNA Sequencer equipped with Genescan and Genotyper software. The results of this preliminary study highlight the genetic differences occurring between PIB and SAB populations.