Abstract: The invention provides improved assays for detection of pregnancy. In the assays, pregnancy associated glycoproteins are analyzed in conjunction with progesterone analysis. The techniques of the invention overcome limitations in the prior art by reducing the rate of false positive results. The assays provided by the invention can be implemented to increase the efficiency of commercial animal breeding programs.

Abstract: An assay for determining the presence in bovine genetic material of a genetic marker located on the bovine somatotropin gene indicative of an inheritable trait of increased milk production is provided. The marker is a polymorphism in the gene encoding somatotropin at amino acid position 126 which results in two forms of somatotropin existing in bovine. The assay comprises analyzing a bovine to determine its genotype with respect to the somatotropin gene. Bovine with the desired marker can be selected for inclusion in breeding programs or for milking. The desired marker indicative of superior milk production is dependent upon the breed of cattle. Holstein cattle that are homozygous for the leucine forms of somatotropin are desired. Jersey cattle that are homozygous for the valine form of somatotropin are desired. A kit for performing the assay is also provided.