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Single nucleotide polymorphisms of the 5' regulatory region of the FSHR gene were detected in 3 goat breeds (Jining Grey, Boer, and Inner Mongolia Cashmere) by the polymerase chain reaction-single-strand conformation polymorphism method, and its effects on litter size in Jining Grey goats were also evaluated. Concerning primer P1, 2 genotypes (AA and BB) were detected in Boer goats, while only the AA genotype was identified in Jining Grey and Inner Mongolia Cashmere goats. Sequencing revealed a T->A transversion at the 26th position and an A->C transversion at the 61st position of the amplified region in genotype BB in comparison to genotype AA. Regarding primer P2, 3 genotypes (CC, CD, and DD) were identified in the 3 goat breeds mentioned above. Sequencing revealed a T->A transversion at the 70th position and a G->C transversion at the 130th position of the amplified region in genotype DD compared with CC. Does with genotype CC had 0.46 (P < 0.05) or 1.03 (P < 0.05) kids more than those with genotype CD or DD, respectively, while does with CD had 0.57 (P < 0.05) kids more than those with DD in Jining Grey goats. These results preliminarily showed that allele C of the FSHR gene was a potential marker for improving litter size in goats.