Mapping of a QTL for serum HDL cholesterol in the rabbit using AFLP technology

The amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) technique Is a DNA techno logy that generates the so-called AFLP markers. These markers are genomic r estriction fragments detected after two rounds of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) without prior knowledge of nucleotide sequence. Here we describe the first application of the AFLP technique In the rabbit. We have tested two primer combinations. The results obtained with the DNA from rabbits of diff erent breeds justify the conclusion that AFLP analysis is an effective tool for genetic studies In the rabbit. In addition, we contribute to the linka ge map of the rabbit by localizing two AFLP markers on rabbit linkage group VI (LG VI). For this purpose the progeny of a IIIVO/ JU x [IIIVO/JU x AX/J U]F-1 backcross were genotyped for 12 AFLP markers and 3 LG VI classical ma rkers [one coat color marker (e) and two biochemical markers (Es-1 and Est- 2)]. AX/JU is a dietary cholesterol-susceptible (hyperresponding) Inbred st rain and IIIVO/JU is a dietary cholesterol resistant (hyporesponding) Inbre d strain. Moreover, it is possible to evoke dietary cholesterol-induced aor ta atherosclerosis in a relatively short time period in AX/JU rabbits. In c ontrast to IIIVO/JU rabbits. A significant cosegregation was found between basal serum HDL cholesterol level (i.e., the level on a low-cholesterol, co ntrol diet) and an AFLP marker on LG VI. It is concluded that one or more g enes of LG VI are regulating the basal serum HDL cholesterol level in rabbi ts. Thus the present study with rabbits clearly illustrates the value of AF LP markers for the construction of linkage maps and mapping of quantitative trait loci (QTL).