Advances in the breeding techniques and candidate genes of bovine twins

Cattle is a monotocous species, occasionally, the reproductive process in cattle results in the birth of twins. Under some beef cattle production scenarios, twinning might be considered a desirable trait that enhances profitability by increasing weaned calf weight that is produced per cow. However, the current research results on the mechanism of bovine twins are not yet clear. This article reviews the research significance, commonly used reproductive techniques, research history and current status of twin related genes, and existing problems related to beef cattle and dairy cows, to provide reference for improving the reproductive performance, enhancing reproductive management efficiency, and studying gene function of cattle.