Identification of the transcript isoforms and expression characteristics for chicken Lpin1

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Genetics
• Animal Science

Background:

• The Lpin1 gene regulates lipid and energy metabolism in mammals.
• Limited information exists regarding the chicken Lpin1 gene's function and characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and characterize chicken Lpin1 gene isoforms.
• To investigate the expression patterns and regulation of chicken Lpin1.
• To explore the correlation between Lpin1 expression and metabolic traits in chickens.

Main Methods:

• Identification of chicken Lpin1 transcript isoforms (Lpin1-α and Lpin1-δ) via sequencing.
• Analysis of protein predictions and conserved elements within the Lpin1 gene.
• Reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) for tissue expression analysis.
• Real-time quantitative RT-PCR to assess the impact of energy restriction on Lpin1 mRNA levels.

Main Results:

• Two chicken Lpin1 isoforms, Lpin1-α and Lpin1-δ, were identified, with Lpin1-δ containing an insertion from intron 12.
• Ten variants were found in the coding sequence, with two missense mutations potentially affecting protein function.
• Chicken Lpin1 isoforms were expressed in all analyzed tissues, showing distinct tissue-specific patterns.
• Energy restriction significantly increased total Lpin1 mRNA expression in hepatic and adipose tissues.
• Lpin1 mRNA expression was inversely correlated with abdominal fat rate, serum high-density lipoprotein, and total cholesterol.

Conclusions:

• The study characterized chicken Lpin1 isoforms and their expression.
• Energy restriction influences chicken Lpin1 gene expression, particularly in metabolic tissues.
• Chicken Lpin1 gene expression is associated with key metabolic indicators, providing a basis for future functional studies.