Effect of a myostatin mutation, nutrition and a β-adrenergic agonist (Ractopamine) on carcass and meat quality in lambs

To produce a uniformly high yielding and quality lamb meat product of high nutritional value it is important to understand the growth and developmental mechanisms of the animal. A naturally occurring myostatin mutation g+6723G->A is associated with increased muscle and reduced fat content in lambs (Kijas et al., 2007). Higher nutrient intake and metabolic modifiers such as β-adrenergic agonists can also improve growth and carcass characteristics (Koohmaraie et al., 1991). We undertook an experiment to investigate the effects of myostatin (MSTN) genotype and Ractopamine (RAC) at two planes of nutrition and their interactions on animal performance and meat quality of sheep. It is anticipated this will enhance our understanding of the mechanisms involved in the regulation of carcass, meat quality and nutritional attributes.