Beyond the Chicken: Alternative Avian Models for Developmental Physiological Research

Area of Science:

• Developmental biology
• Comparative anatomy

Background:

• The chicken (Gallus gallus domesticus) is a widely used animal model in biomedical research.
• Intense artificial selection has resulted in specialized chicken breeds with unique physiological and morphological traits.
• These specialized traits can impact the generalizability and translational value of developmental research findings.

Approach:

• Reviewing characteristics of ideal animal models for developmental research.
• Exploring alternative avian species beyond the chicken for developmental studies.
• Considering the embryo-to-adult continuum in various bird groups.

Key Points:

• The chicken's artificial selection history leads to significant genetic and phenotypic variation.
• Some chicken breeds exhibit aberrant traits (e.g., hypertension, hyperglycemia, limb defects) useful for disease modeling but potentially confounding general research.
• Alternative avian models offer opportunities to expand developmental research.
• Considered alternative models include quail, ratites, songbirds, birds of prey, and corvids.

Conclusions:

• Expanding avian model systems beyond the chicken is crucial.
• Using diverse avian models can validate findings from chicken studies.
• New avian models may offer superior suitability for specific research questions in basic biology and human health.