Genetic relationships between local Brazilian goat breeds based on mtDNA D-loop region similarity

Aim of study: Our objective was to investigate the mitochondrial DNA of local Brazilian goats to gain insights into the genetic composition of this precious genetic resource.Area of study: The study was developed in BrazilMaterial and methods: We analyzed a hypervariable region of the mitochondrial DNA of 83 goats belonging to four local Brazilian breeds, including Canindé (CAN-RN), Moxotó (MOX-CE), Marota (MAR-PI) and Azul (AZU-PE) as well as of exotic breeds raised in different states of the Federation. Sequences related to local Brazilian goats showed a dispersed distribution throughout the median-joining network, and clustering with sequences of exotic breeds occurred in some haplotypes. The obtained sequences were analyzed and compared with different haplogroups (A, B1, B2, C, D, F, and G) available on GenBank.Main results: The local Brazilian goat breeds showed significant diversity, with 16 (0.8240) haplotypes. Population structure analysis revealed substantial differences among breeds (p < 0.05). Mitochondrial lineage A was observed in Brazilian goats. Phylogeny showed European goats as the dominant stock for Brazilian goats, but there weare some haplotypes within haplogroup A, clustering with African and Asian haplotypes.Research highlights: These results could be suitable for creating a strategic conservation program, potentially benefitting future breeding programs