Characterization of Sex-Determining Region Y (SRY) Gene Sequences of Endangered Gembrong Goat (Capra hircus) In Bali Island, Indonesia

Gembrong goat is an indigenous breed of Bali, Indonesia, currently threatened by high levels of inbreeding due to their declining population size. Genetic characterization is an important approach to support breed conservation and improve breeding management and selection measures. This study aimed to analyze the sex-determining region of the Y chromosome in bucks of the Gembrong goat breed. Blood samples from ten male bucks were collected, and DNA was extracted and amplified using polymerase chain reaction targeting a fragment of the sex-determining region of the Y chromosome. The amplified products were sequenced and analyzed to identify genetic variations. The results revealed two insertion-deletion mutations located in the non-coding region, which led to the identification of three gene variants. One variant was dominant, while the others were present at lower frequencies. In addition, a specific point mutation was detected which may serve as a potential breed specific genetic marker. Phylogenetic analysis showed that Gembrong goats belongs to a distinct genetic cluster compared to other goat breeds. These findings provide valuable new genetic information of the Gembrong goats breed highlighting their uniqueness. The results can contribute to the development of appropriate breeding strategies with the aim to reduce inbreeding and support long-term conservation processes. Furthermore, this study emphasizes the importance of genetic characterization studies in preserving endangered native livestock breeds.