Associations Between c.2832A > G Polymorphism of CAST Gene and Meat Tenderness in Cattle: A Meta-Analysis

Genes or genetic markers related to meat quality have been studied for many years. The CAST gene is one candidate gene affecting meat tenderness in cattle. This meta-analysis aimed to examine the association of c.2832A>G polymorphism of the CAST gene and meat tenderness in cattle. According to the determined criteria, 17 studies were included in the meta-analysis, and pooled ratios of allele and genotype frequencies were calculated. In addition, the combined Warner-Braztler Shear Force values were calculated for three studies that reported these values according to genotypes for the meat tenderness feature. Heterogeneity between studies and publication bias were also tested. As a result of the meta-analysis, pooled ratios of AA, AG, and GG genotypes are 0.578, 0.342, and 0.080; pooled ratios of A and G alleles are 0.777 and 0.223. The highest pooled ratios were obtained for AA genotype and A allele. The combined Warner-Braztler shear force values were calculated as 3.707, 3.893, and 5.137 kilogram-force for AA, AG, and GG genotypes. The highest mean shear force value was obtained for the GG genotype. In conclusion, the meta-analysis results examined the relationship between c.2832A>G polymorphism of the CAST gene and meat tenderness were closer to the population parameter. This study may improve genetic selection and provide new strategies to increase meat quality in cattle.