TMT-based quantitative proteomic analysis unveils uterine fluid difference in hens producing normal and pimpled eggs

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Biochemistry
• Poultry Science

Background:

• Eggshell quality is vital, with pimpled eggs (PE) causing significant economic losses.
• PE are characterized by defects in eggshell strength, impacting the poultry industry.
• Understanding the mechanisms behind PE formation is crucial for improving egg quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the differences in uterine fluid (UF) between hens producing normal eggs (NE) and PE.
• To identify key proteins in UF that may contribute to the formation of PE.
• To explore the potential mechanisms underlying PE formation and suggest strategies for enhancement.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of egg quality between PE and NE.
• Histomorphological examination of uterine tissue from hens producing PE and NE.
• Quantitative proteomic analysis of UF from PE and NE groups (n=6 each) over a 2-week period.

Main Results:

• NE exhibited superior eggshell quality compared to PE.
• Uterine structure in PE hens was found to be conducive to PE formation.
• Proteomic analysis identified 68 differential abundance proteins (DAPs) in PE hen UF, including proteins involved in ion transport, protein synthesis/folding, and immunity.
• Downregulation of CALM1 and SCNN1G proteins in PE hens may impair calcium signaling and reduce UF calcium levels.
• PHB1 and TSN proteins were implicated in eggshell formation via immune response regulation.

Conclusions:

• Differences in UF composition and protein profiles are associated with PE formation.
• Specific proteins like CALM1, SCNN1G, PHB1, and TSN play potential roles in the pathogenesis of PE.
• These findings provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of PE production and offer targets for improving eggshell quality in poultry.