cDNA cloning, genomic structure, chromosomal mapping and expression analysis of ADIPOQ (adiponectin) in chicken

We report sequence, tissue expression and map position data for the adiponectin gene (ADIPOQ) in chicken. This gene is involved in adipocyte differentiation in mammals and may play similar roles in chicken. The complete coding sequence of chicken ADIPOQ encodes a 244 amino acid protein. The coding region of the chicken ADIPOQ is organized in two exons and spans an approximately 2.1 kb genomic region. Domain/motif structures of the adiponectin protein among chicken and mammalian homologs are highly conserved. Reverse transcription-PCR revealed chicken ADIPOQ mRNA displayed high expression levels in fat tissue, heart, stomach and skin and weak expression in muscle. Analysis of a radiation hybrid panel indicated that ADIPOQ showed the most significant linkage to FOXL2 (LOD = 12.63, 12 cR) and ATSV (LOD = 7.53, 3 cR) both of which are located on chicken chromosome 9. Information provided in this study will be useful in further studies to determine the role the adiponectin gene plays in the regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism and body weight in chicken.