Development and Validation of KASP Assays for the Genotyping of Racing Performance-Associated Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Pigeons.

Pigeon racing's recent upturn in popularity can be attributed in part to the huge prize money involved in these competitions. As such, methods to select pigeons with desirable genetic characteristics for racing or for selective breeding have also been gaining more interest. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) for genotyping-specific genes is one of the most commonly used molecular techniques, which can be costly, laborious and time consuming. The present study reports the development of an alternative genotyping method that employs Kompetitive Allele Specific Polymerase Chain Reaction (KASP) technology with specifically designed primers to detect previously reported racing performance-associated polymorphisms within the LDHA, MTYCB, and DRD4 genes. To validate, KASP assays and PCR-RFLP assays results from 107 samples genotyped for each of the genes were compared and the results showed perfect (100%) agreement of both methods. The developed KASP assays present an alternative rapid, reliable, and cost-effective method to identify polymorphisms in pigeons.

Common bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases in pigeons (Columba livia): A review of diagnostic and treatment strategies.

Pigeons (Columba livia) have been associated with humans for a long time now. They are raised for sport (pigeon race), exhibition (display of fancy breeds), food, and research. Most of the pigeons kept are Racing Homers, trained to compete in the pigeon race. Other breeds, such as Rollers, Nose Divers, Doneks are bred for their aerial abilities. Incorporation of a good preventive medicine program is one of the most critical factors in averting infectious diseases in pigeon flocks. This review summarizes the common bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections in pigeons. The different clinical signs, symptoms, diagnostic strategies, prevention, and treatments were described in this review. Current researches, molecular diagnostic assays, and treatment strategies such as vaccines and drug candidates were included. The information found in this review can provide insights for veterinarians and researchers studying pigeons to develop effective and efficient immunoprophylactic and diagnostic tools for pigeon diagnosis and therapeutics.