Genet. Sel. Evol. 38 (2006) 479-494
DOI: 10.1051/gse:2006016

A meta-analytic assessment of a Thyroglobulin marker for marbling in beef cattle

Ian A. Wood^a, Gerhard Moser^b, Daniel L. Burrell^a, Kerrie L. Mengersen^a and D. Jay S. Hetzel<sup>b

a</sup>  School of Mathematical Sciences, Queensland University of Technology, GPO Box 2434 Brisbane, QLD 4001, Australia
^b  Genetic Solutions Pty. Ltd., 31 Dover St. Albion, QLD 4010, Australia

(Received 27 September 2005; accepted 20 April 2006; published online 6 September 2006)

Abstract - A meta-analysis was undertaken reporting on the association between a polymorphism in the Thyroglobulin gene (TG5) and marbling in beef cattle. A Bayesian hierarchical model was adopted, with alternative representations assessed through sensitivity analysis. Based on the overall posterior means and posterior probabilities, there is substantial support for an additive association between the TG5 marker and marbling. The marker effect was also assessed across various breed groups, with each group displaying a high probability of positive association between the T allele and marbling. The WinBUGS program code used to simulate the model is included as an Appendix available online at www.edpsciences.org/gse.

Key words: Bayesian hierarchical model / meta-analysis / association studies / TG5 marker / beef marbling

Correspondence and reprints: i.wood@qut.edu.au

© INRA, EDP Sciences 2006