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Transcriptomic analysis to elucidate the molecular mechanisms that underlie feed efficiency in meat-type chickens
Jeeyoung Lee1, Arthur B Karnuah1, Romdhane Rekaya2
1NutriGenomics Laboratory, Department of Poultry Science, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
Molecular Genetics and Genomics : MGG
|March 19, 2015
Summary
Understanding feed efficiency in chickens is key. This study identifies genes and pathways linked to residual feed intake (RFI), revealing how chickens achieve better feed efficiency through metabolic and cellular regulation.
Area of Science:
- Animal Genomics
- Nutritional Physiology
- Gene Expression Profiling
Background:
- Feed efficiency is crucial for poultry production, but its genetic and molecular underpinnings, particularly residual feed intake (RFI), are not fully understood.
- Limited global gene expression studies exist for feed efficiency traits.
- Identifying specific genes and pathways associated with RFI can inform breeding strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify genes and molecular pathways associated with residual feed intake (RFI) in chickens.
- To compare transcriptional profiles of duodenal tissue in chickens divergently selected for low (LRFI) and high (HRFI) RFI at different ages.
Main Methods:
- Transcriptional profiling using Affymetrix GeneChip Chicken Genome Array and RT-PCR on duodenal tissue from LRFI and HRFI chickens at days 35 and 42.
- Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) to identify canonical and gene network pathways related to RFI.
Main Results:
- Significant global gene expression differences between LRFI and HRFI chickens were observed, involving cell division, growth, apoptosis, protein synthesis, lipid metabolism, and molecular transport.
- Improved RFI in chickens is associated with up-regulation of genes like CD36 and PPARα, and down-regulation of PCSK2 and CALB1, impacting lipid metabolism and cellular functions.
- Reduced feed intake with no change in weight gain (achieving feed efficiency) involves up-regulation of appetite-reducing genes, increased oxidative stress, prolonged cell cycle, DNA damage, apoptosis, and enhanced dietary fat oxidation.
Conclusions:
- Residual feed intake (RFI) in chickens is influenced by a complex interplay of genes regulating cellular processes, metabolism, and appetite.
- Transcriptional profiling of duodenal tissue provides insights into the molecular mechanisms driving feed efficiency.
- Understanding these genetic pathways can aid in developing more efficient poultry breeds.
