Genetic analysis of ND4 and ND4L regions of mitochondrial genome in Khorasan native chickens

Preserving genetic diversity of Iranian native chickens is significant in order to perform breeding programs and improved production. Genetic diversity among close populations can be determined by investigating their phylogenetic relations. Different approaches have been applied to determine the phylogenic relations from which genomic sequencing has been considered the most functional approach. In this project, we aimed to evaluate the phylogeny and genetic nucleotide sequences of ND4 and ND4L regions in mitochondrial genome of Khorasan native chickens. Blood samples were collected from 6 random populations and their genomic DNAs were extracted. Results showed that there is no haplotype difference between the studied samples. Lowest genetic distance was observed between Khorasan native chicken and other Asian chickens i.e. Jiangbian, Lvenwv and Red jungle fowl for the ND4 and ND4L genes indicating their close relationship.