A Transcriptome Analysis Identifies Biological Pathways and Candidate Genes for Feed Efficiency in DLY Pigs

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Genetics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Feed cost represents a significant portion (65-75%) of commercial pork production expenses.
• Enhancing feed efficiency (FE) in pigs is vital for economic viability and sustainability in the swine industry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the small intestine of pigs with extremely high (HE) versus low (LE) feed efficiency.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying variations in feed efficiency in Duroc × (Landrace × Yorkshire) (DLY) pigs.

Main Methods:

• Selection of 12 pigs (6 HE, 6 LE) from 225 DLY pigs based on feed efficiency.
• RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis of small intestine mucosal tissue to quantify gene expression.
• Bioinformatic analyses including enrichment analysis and protein-protein interaction networks.

Main Results:

• Identified 433 significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between HE and LE groups (389 upregulated, 44 downregulated in HE).
• DEGs were enriched in functions related to apical plasma membrane, transporter activity, transport, and hormone regulation of digestion/absorption.
• SLC2A2 was identified as a key candidate gene potentially influencing feed efficiency in pigs.

Conclusions:

• The study provides insights into the genetic basis of feed efficiency in pigs.
• Candidate genes, such as SLC2A2, offer potential targets for genetic improvement programs to enhance swine FE.
• Identified DEGs can inform future artificial selection strategies for increased feeding efficiency in commercial pig populations.