Host genetics and gut microbiota synergistically regulate feed utilization in egg-type chickens

Area of Science:

• Poultry Genetics and Microbiology
• Animal Nutrition and Metabolism

Background:

• Feed efficiency is a critical economic trait in the poultry industry.
• Both host genetics and gut microbiota play roles in determining feed efficiency.
• The interplay between host genetics, gut microbiota, and feed efficiency in late-stage laying hens is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the associations between host genetics, gut microbiota, and feed efficiency in laying hens.
• To identify key genetic variations, genes, and microbial taxa influencing feed efficiency.
• To understand the combined effects of host genetics and gut microbiota on feed efficiency.

Main Methods:

• Genome-wide resequencing and liver transcriptome sequencing of 686 laying hens.
• 16S rRNA gene sequencing of gut chyme and fecal samples from 705 individuals.
• Integrated bioinformatic analysis of genomic, transcriptomic, and microbiome data.

Main Results:

• Heritability estimates for feed conversion ratio (FCR) and residual feed intake (RFI) were 0.28 and 0.48, respectively.
• Gut microbiota explained up to 20% of RFI variance and 15% of FCR variance.
• Four genes (SUCLA2, TNFSF13B, SERTM1, MARVELD3) were identified as influencing feed efficiency, with specific associations to host genetic variations and microbial abundances (e.g., Enterococcus, Corynebacteriaceae).

Conclusions:

• Both host genetics and gut microbiota are significant drivers of feed efficiency variations.
• Interactions between specific gut microbes and host genes collectively enhance feed efficiency.
• Strategies targeting both gut microbiota composition and host genetic selection can improve laying hen feed efficiency.