RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN GOAT κ-CASEIN ( CSN 3 ) POLYMORPHISM AND MILK COMPOSITION

The relationships between goat κ-casein (CSN3) variants and milk composition were studied in 1143 goats from 4 breeds (Camosciata, Frisa, Orobica, Verzasca). Individual milk samples were analysed by isoelectrofocusing. The effect of CSN3 type on protein and casein content was evident, B variant being associated to higher levels of both traits. Since the B variant is mainly present in local caprine breeds, the relevance of its favourable effect on milk composition for the conservation and valorisation of the autochthonous resources is evident.