<div>Background: The study was undertaken to assess the association of genetic polymorphisms in reproductive trait-related genes (ESR2, COX2 and PLCz) with semen quality and fertility in Large White Yorkshire (LWY) boars. Identifying favorable genotypes can enhance reproductive efficiency through targeted genetic selection. 
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Methods: Ten LWY boars were selected and ten ejaculates from each were collected. Semen quality was evaluated immediately after collection and after 24 hours of storage at 17&deg;C in BTS extender. Preserved semen was used to inseminate 60 gilts/sows (6 per boar) and conception rate and litter size were recorded. Blood samples were collected for genomic DNA extraction using QIAamp Mini Kit. PCR amplification was performed using gene-specific primers for ESR2, COX2 and PLCz, followed by RFLP analysis with restriction enzymes BsrBI, FatI and Tsp509fI, respectively. 
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Result: Significant (P&lt;0.01) variation was observed among boars for sperm concentration, mass activity, conception rate and litter size. Preservation significantly reduced motility, live sperm percentage, plasma membrane integrity and acrosome integrity. The AG genotype of ESR2 showed significantly higher motility, sperm concentration, normal sperm count, plasma membrane integrity, conception rate and litter size and lower abnormal sperm count. The AA genotype of COX2 was associated with significantly higher mass activity, live sperm count, conception rate and reduced abnormal sperm count. The PLCz locus was found to be monomorphic.</div>

Assessment of Boar Semen Quality and Fertility in Relation to Variants of Reproductive Trait Associated Genes ESR2, COX2 and PLCz